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CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY Vol. 67, No. 8 | WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18, 2015 | 403-783-3311 | EDITORIAL@PONOKANEWS.COM
Ponoka sweeps home win with good conditioning Story on page 20
MacLeod family active in Ponoka business and sports Story on page 5
A night on the town Kendall Tomkins holding Everly-Rose Deleeuw enjoy a meal at the Ponoka Legion’s Valentine’s Day Dinner, Friday Feb. 13. Photo by Amelia Naismith
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2 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Boys and Girls Club implores town for support BY AMELIA NAISMITH
While the Town of Ponoka council denied direct funding to the Boys and Girls Club of Wolf Creek this year, councillors are contemplating supporting the organization in other ways. At council’s Tuesday Feb. 10 meeting, a letter from executive director Beth Reitz appealed to council to support the organization in three area. Each year the Ponoka Youth Centre pays approximately $2,200 to the town for water. Reitz is hoping the town will cover the cost of the utility, as it has done
in the past. Reducing swimming fees for the group, as they pay approximately $1,000 each year and a $1,000 donation to the organization’s benevolent fund was also on the menu. “Their funding has been suspect over the last year,” said Mayor Rick Bonnett. He says the town does not have a lot of extra money this year to spread around, but when the matter comes back to council, a decision will be made to either deny the request, or cover the charges either in whole or in part. Mayors’ caucus items With the Alberta Urban
Municipalities Association (AUMA) Mayors’ Caucus approaching, March 10 to 12, the town is looking for its own support for educational and environmental issues. At the council meeting, Coun. Loanna Gulka spearheaded a motion to add a system change in school playground funding to the list of issues that need addressing. The Ponoka Elementary School is set to move to its new location before the end of the academic year and the challenge of raising enough money for a playground has been prominent. Council feels the onus should be on the education system to provide a playground for every Kindergarten to Grade 6 elementary school. In December, council sent a letter to the provincial government on the matter and on Jan. 27, a letter in response stated the government will not provide playgrounds to schools.
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“To me that says we’re handing that down to the municipalities and the parents of the schools,” said Bonnett. With childhood obesity on the rise, he feels the government should show more concern and take action. “It’s important for their development, the social part,” agreed Coun. Marc Yaworski. Underground steel tank clean up serious issue The brownfields — locations where gas stations used to operate with underground fuel tanks still left behind— is a matter Bonnett will be raising at the gathering. Bonnett says, in the 1950s and 60s, most towns had a gas station on every street corner. But as vehicles began getting better fuel mileage, many became obsolete and closed down, leaving steel fuel tanks underground. “And you know what happens to steel underground, they rust away,” said Bonnett. He says there are multiple sites in town with underground tanks and neither the government nor the companies will clean them up. Instead the companies continue to pay taxes on the private land locations. “We see areas in this
town, there’s places that are vacant and aren’t being utilized properly,” said Bonnett. He wants to lobby the government for changes to how the brownfields are assessed. More background information is needed
Water meter project to resume when snow melts BY AMELIA NAISMITH
Replacing the water meters in town with newer, more energy efficient models was a project the Town of Ponoka began in the spring of 2014; as of town council’s Tuesday, Feb. 10 regular meeting there were only about 100 left in town to change. Neptune Technology Group, contracted by the town for the replacement of the water meters, has completed its tasks under the project and is no longer in the town. “We’re going forward with our own plumbers,” said town CAO Rachel Kunz. Once the ground thaws and the worst of winter passes, the remainder of the meters will be installed;
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some were delayed when the water could not be shut off inside the building the councilors were told, attempting to reach the street shutoff now would prove more costly than waiting. Town staff also face the challenge of the lingering eight to 10 hard refusals. “Right now the plan of administration is to the get the other 90-some put in and they will deal with the hard refusals at that time,” said Mayor Rick Bonnett. “We’ll take a stand at that point. We’re not going to slide it under the rug,” he added. Snow removal challenges Until the snow melts away, town council is looking to review its snow removal policy and implement something that will produce better results. “We asked administration to bring us the policy back on snow removal enforcement,” said Bonnett. Issues include cars being routinely parked in zones posted with no parking signs and sidewalks being left dangerously snowy and icy. “Some of our residents would like to see more teeth in it,” said Bonnett, referring to the current policy. The issue is especially difficult for seniors, some of whom have spoken directly with council on the matter. “It’s a safety and a respect issue,” said Bonnett. Right now if the work is not done in a timely fashion, town staff remove the snow and the bill is added to the offenders’ taxes. “I think council is thinking that’s obviously not working,” said Bonnett.
PONOKA NEWS 3
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Youths surprised to see police after prank call and two women entered the store and one man and one woman walked out with the speakers. The next day police received a call from staff at a local dealership who recognized the two women from wanted posters. Police arrested a 29-year-old woman and 27-year-old woman from Maskwacis and were able to determine the
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
A prank call of a kidnapping last week had youths in hot water with police on Valentine’s Day. A male youth received a text stating that his girlfriend was kidnapped and abductors demanded $50,000 cash as a ransom. The boy called the phone back and heard a man’s voice in the background demanding money. He called the police over concern for her safety. Ponoka RCMP acted quickly and conducted a high-risk arrest at a local fast food restaurant. Investigations revealed that the girlfriend and her friend were conducting a prank on the boyfriend. Officers had a lengthy discussion with the youths over the inherent dangers of conducting a prank of this nature. No one was charged and there was no risk to the public during the event. Three suspects charged in multiple thefts Ponoka RCMP were able to pin several theft charges on three individuals after a tip from a local store. One charge relates to the theft of speakers from a downtown store Tuesday, Feb. 10 valued at $320. Police were told that two men
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29-year-old was involved in a theft from a drugstore recently. One male suspect has also been identified in a theft from a liquor store. Impaired driver flees officers An impaired driver’s attempt to flee members of the Ponoka Integrated Traffic Unit on Valentine’s Day did not go as planned. PHONE: 403-783-4911 FAX: 403-783-5222
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Officers received calls of a 2007 Ford F350 weaving in and out of traffic and travelling at speeds in excess of 150 Km/h southbound on Highway 2. Once sheriffs caught up with the vehicle, they activated their emergency lights and the driver subsequently sped up and fled form police. He was eventually found in Blackfalds where
local RCMP arrested him for failing to stop for police. He failed a roadside test and provided two blood alcohol samples of .12 and .11 at the Blackfalds detachment. Police charge man for assault A 911 hang up call resulted in charges of assault on a 44-year-old Ponoka man Friday, Feb. 13. continued on page 4
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4 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship
CHURCH DIRECTORY Associated Gospel Churches of Canada
CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE Pastor Jerry Preheim • Pastor Matt Sealy 3704 - 42 St. Ponoka 403-783-6500 Worship Service 11:00 a.m. • churchoftheopenbible@telus.net
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PONOKA
Sr. Pastor Paul Spate Erin Dirsten - Fac. Youth & Family Min. 5109 - 57 Ave. Ponoka www.fbcponoka.org 403-783-5533 Bible Discovery Hour 9:30 a.m.
Worship Service 10:30 a.m.
NEW COVENANT BAPTIST REFORMED CHURCH Currently meeting at Ponoka Christian School 6300-50 St. Worship Service Sunday 10:30 a.m. Everyone Welcome! phone: 403-783-6962 • www.baptistreformedponoka.org
PARKLAND REFORMED CHURCH South on 2A, West on Spruce Road 403-783-1888 Rev. Mitch Ramkissoon Worship Service 10:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. www.parklandurc.org
PONOKA WORD OF LIFE CHURCH Pastor Rob McArthur
403-783-5659
Sunday @ 10:30 a.m. Corner of Hwy 53 & Hwy 2A (former Crossroads Restaurant)
www.wordoflife.ca
PONOKA UNITED CHURCH Minister: Beatrix Schirner
ponokaunited@shaw.ca
Sunday Service 10:00 am. 5020-52 Ave. Ponoka
Phone: 403-783-4087
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH PASTOR DAVE BEAUDOIN 6230-57 Ave. Ph. 403-783-6404 Saturdays 9:30 - 12 Noon dsjjb@xplornet.com ponokaadventist.ca
SONRISE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Pastor W. Delleman Worship Service 10:30 a.m. ½ mile south of Centennial Centre for Mental Health & Brain Injury
403-783-6012 • www.sonriseponoka.com
ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Chris Gnanaprakasam, S.A.C. Mass Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 9:00 a.m. Sunday
5113 - 52 Ave., Ponoka, T4J 1H6 403-783-4048 stachurch@shaw.ca
ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Rev. Donna Willer Rev. Marty Tuer, Honourary Assistant 5120 - 49 Ave. Ponoka
403-783-4329
Sunday Service: Holy Eucharist 10 a.m. www.stmarysanglicanponoka.com
TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 5501 - 54 Ave. Ponoka 403-783-4141 Sunday Service: 10:30am Sunday School: 10:30am Pastor Tim Graff • trinityponoka.ca
ZION CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Fred Knip 9 miles east on Hwy 53 403-782-9877 Jr. Church during service for children Sunday Service 10:30 am
Power threatened As I write these words, we are entering those who are already feeding well at the the Lenten season, leading up to Good Fritrough), while at the same time, makes it day and then Easter. There is no doubt that more difficult for those at the bottom, or our culture – whether Christian or not – enthose just beginning (like students) to get a joys Easter much more than Lent. Easter is place at the communal table. all coloured eggs, bright and uplifting mu“Power” in Canada is fond of trumpetsic, and flowers. For some Christians, it is a ing about how free we are, and how changes time of giddy joyousness, spring sales, and are always being made to make us freer. At a renunciation of anything sad or mournful. the same time, our elected representatives Some congregations celebrate Easter with a are silenced if they wish to raise embarrasscongregational Easter egg hunt – about as ing questions, or unpopular topics. Those far from an empty tomb, and the Christian who are forced by circumstance to use Emstory of the Easter drama as one can get! ployment Insurance to pay the rent may find Palm Sunday and the reading of the stothemselves grilled and investigated as pory of Jesus’ arrest by Roman soldiers, and tential criminals, by agents of “Power”, and betrayal and denial by his own people, is far fewer of them are found “eligible” than indeed a dark story. It is a story many feel James Strachan previously. is best passed over in silence, opting for the “Power” in our land repeatedly warns The United Church “Yippee!” of a shallow Easter celebration. us about the rising tide of crime, and the of Canada Many Christians believe that the whole need to build more and bigger prisons, even not a member of scenario was planned by God so that some while statistics reveal that the crime rate in The Ponoka price God needed paid to himself could be Canada is actually declining year by year. Ministerial repaid in Jesus’ death. However, I find it inOne wonders who will obtain the lucrative Association triguing that in this story about the situation contracts to build these prisons. They would of Jesus’ followers during that time when he certainly be people who offer no threat to was hunted, and later (after the experience “Power!” of resurrection), that they were hunted as criminals by the Now, you may have long since decided that my musEmperor. ings here have nothing to do with Lent, or Easter, or with Jesus and later, his friends, were hunted because they Jesus and his message. But it is interesting that when He were a threat to the power structures of the day! Those power lived and spoke, Jesus made “Power” quake and rage and structures in ancient times were called Caesar, the Sanhe- hunt him down to shut him up. For some centuries after drin, or less accurately “The Romans” and “The Jews.” But his crucifixion (and his resurrection, Christians assert) their it was “Power” that feared Jesus and his message, regard- designation as “Followers of the Way” made them part of less of ethnicity or religion. Throughout history, “Power” an outlawed religion. Its followers were subject to death if and “Authority” has frequently hunted down ‘freedom’ and arrested. Only then could “Power” relax. Instead, of course, ‘love’, in an attempt to eliminate them. they embraced the “Followers of the Way” and helped them Imagine the Christian community being a threat to become Church…”THE Church.” Then everybody wanted the same powers in our culture! Our Churches are left to belong. And “Power” was threatened no more, because in peace, they are well cared for, and everyone expects “Power” had encouraged the Followers of the Way to bethem to produce citizens who are ‘nice people;’ friendly, come harmless “Christians”. compassionate… and peaceable. But threatening? Never! I wonder…what words of Jesus “Good News” procContemporary Christians tend to bow before “Power”, to lamation would threaten “Power” today? What would embrace its feet, or seek its benefits, to become its allies. “Power” do in 2015 to those who actually became “FolUnless of course, those people have listened to the lower of the Way,” and acted on the words that Jesus shared Jesus’ stories more carefully, or read their Bibles more with them? I wonder…. frequently and more closely. Unless they held the images of God’s Kingdom (as Jesus spoke about it), up against the daily life and practices of those we call “Power” these days. That could be City Hall… the Government … the Company… the Institution….Then we might begin to see discrepancies that might make Christians a threat to Power continued from page 3 cash. once again! After receiving the Police, along with the It’s easy to see the cracks and faults in the practice of 911 hang up call, police community response unit “Power” in other places, other countries. We do, and we determined the address of and police dog services regularly criticize them for it. It is much more difficult and the home in Ponoka, where also found drug parapherdangerous to see cracks and faults close to home. For ex- they subsequently found nalia in the home on the ample, our “Powers” always speak in capital letters about a 39-year-old woman and Samson town site. the importance of the Economy (which usually benefits three young boys attemptThree individuals were ing to leave the home. arrested and charged: WayAfter trying to stop lan Soosay was charged the woman from leaving, with possession of maripolice ordered the man juana for the purpose of to return to the home. trafficking, possession of He is reported to have cocaine and possession of been intoxicated and had property obtained by crime. trouble understanding their Two adults, whose requests. He was arrested names were not released, and taken to the detachwere charged with possesment where he remained sion of marijuana. uncooperative with officers. Ponoka RCMP and The man was released For per month with a promise to appear in Integrated Traffic Unit took 72 calls for service last We will pick up your paper, clean tins, court. glass, No. 1-5 plastic and cardboard. Maskwacis RCMP search week. We also pick up cardboard from local businesses. If you have information home for drugs on any crime call Ponoka A search of a MaskwaFor more information on these programs please call RCMP at 403-783-4472 or cis home Feb. 11 yielded Crime Stoppers at 1-800illegal substances includWeekdays ing marijuana, cocaine and 222-8477.
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PONOKA NEWS 5
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Reflections of Ponoka
MacLeod family active in Ponoka business and sports BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS
Throughout countless decades, the exciting and colorful ongoing growth and successes of our town and county has been led by many families, individuals and organizations that have always been proud to call Ponoka their home. Angus and Gordon MacLeod were outstanding gentleman who passionately pursued and promoted business and sports during more than 70 very active years while raising their families in and around our vibrant community. Angus MacLeod was a robust and jolly man, who came back to the Ponoka district in 1941 after a stint in the north. In one of our early ‘business firsts’, he opened this community’s first cold storage plants at 5025-51 Avenue, where quality meat was cut and frozen, as well as providing storage lockers that customers could rent year round to store their purchases. A modern abattoir was also located in the Riverside district in 1943, which was capable of processing and chilling up to 100 head of beef or hogs a day for the operation. As business boomed, the west bay of the Ponoka Cold Storage plant was added in 1948. When personal deep freezes replaced the need for rented lockers, the entrepreneurial Mr. MacLeod promoted other businesses for the building, which included a grocery store, a fabric shop, and an insurance company. The original building, which still stands at the same location, featured a white cement exterior, louvered vents, traditional small windows, and raised floors with sawdust insulation. In 1997, when the MacLeod family joined in with the Ponoka Main Street programme, many improvements were made and can still be viewed and enjoyed at what is now considered as an historical sight in our community. Mr. and Mrs. MacLeod’s son Gordon, who took all his schooling in Ponoka and was very active in sports, would quickly carry on on the proud family traditional of establishing new business opportunities in the vibrant and growing community. Those of us who were growing up and living in Ponoka in the 1950s and ‘60s will
never forget Poor Gordies’ Lad and Lassie Tastee Delite Drive-in along Highway 2, across from the present Fort Ostell Museum. Gordon MacLeod opened this exciting new way of ‘eating out’ in 1958, where you could walk or drive up to the window in your vehicle or bike and order from a delightful menu of hamburgers, hotdogs, huge plates of hot fries, all sorts of cold or hot drinks, yummy ice cream and the thickest milk shakes in town. Your meal was ready in minutes, and the congenial staff always included local ladies and lots of young PCHS students. Mr. MacLeod later added a go-cart track next to the facility, which was very popular for all ages. Gordon’s wife Ruth would open Ruth’s Fabric Centre in the cold storage building in 1963, and offered a fine and complete line of colorful fabrics and patterns that were ideal for moms, daughters, and grammas to take home and sew and create delightful outfits for all occasions and family members. Angus MacLeod was also a hockey fanatic and avid promoter, who served on the executive of the great Ponoka Senior ‘AA’ Stampeders championship hockey teams of that era, and also served as a player scout in the central Alberta area for the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League. Gordon MacLeod played on several local minor hockey squads and later with the Stampeders, and was later involved on the community committee that organized our first and only Ponoka Stampeder Junior ‘A’ team for several seasons of exciting competition in the prestigious Alberta Junior ‘A’ Hockey League. It was Angus MacLeod who always insisted that the old arena concession stand must open up early and stay late on game nights, because it was the aroma of the sizzling burgers, hot-dogs, and pop-corn that helped to attract the fans to the rink. Gordon and Ruth’s children Brian, Doug, Joanne, Kathy and Donna all grew up in Ponoka, and after school and on weekends, helped out at the businesses as well as taking part in all sorts of sports and community activities. The Macleods also provided ongoing sponsorships for hockey, baseball, fastball, and other community and
Photo courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum
Ardent Ponoka businessman and sports promoter Angus MacLeod, centre, was honoured in the 1960s by members of the Boston Bruins National Hockey League organization for serving as one of their Central Alberta scouts for many years.
Photo courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum
The original Ponoka Cold Storage Service building was opened by Angus MacLeod in the early 1940s at 5025-51 Avenue Ponoka, and has played host to many successful local businesses for over 75 years.
district sports teams and organizations for decades. Over the years, many businesses have set up their signs in the Ponoka Cold Storage building, and have served thousands
of customers from far and wide. Another longstanding Ponoka family, the Crawfords would open their insurance office there in 1967, which is still operating to this day along with Sun Life Financial.
Remember When... Photo submitted
Even during the war years, our hardy pioneers loved to get together on the weekends for a grand old time dance and celebration, and whether it be at the Elks’ Hall along Chipman Avenue, Ponoka or in one of the many friendly community halls out in the country, it was always a good time, usually going well into the wee hours. This 1945 photo features the popular Asker Orchestra, shown from left to right: John Ferguson, Torbjorn Woyen, Clifford Vold, Norman Vold, Herbert Ravnsborg, Gordon Vold, and Karsten Kjenner.
6 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Opinion
Full circle of Orwellian omens?
Mustafa Eric
Editor When George Orwell wrote his “1984”, whether he envisioned the level of intrusion that governments can achieve into their citizens’ lives in 2015, we have no way of knowing. But as of 2015, even if we are not commandeered by remote control radio or TV instructions as depicted in the film version of the novel, it is certain that the information that our governments have about us is beyond what we might want to believe. Let’s face it, much of the information we are giving away ourselves by subscribing to social media sites, exposing a lot of our private lives to anybody and everybody who may want to have a sneak peek at it. But what is at play in the digital world may be a lot more sinister than collecting information voluntarily given away on Facebook, Instgram, Twitter etc. A Reuters report published just last Monday (http://www.reuters.com/ article/2015/02/17/ususa-cyberspying-idUSKBN0LK1QV20150217) says the digital intelligence gathering arm of the US government, the National Security Agency, has been hiding spying software in
the remote corners of hard drives even before they are installed in millions of personal computers, thereby ensuring access to the digital devices before they are owned by individuals and ability to activate the software whenever and wherever they want. That is, an innocent e mail you may have received or sent to a family member, friend or relative can be accessed at any time if the NSA feels like scanning your computer for whatever reason, or without a reason. Some former NSA em-
ployees interviewed for the Reuters report confirm that various versions of the software have been in use since 2001. This is a disturbing wake up call, not that it was not known how NSA used all kinds of techniques and technologies to spy on individuals, including leaders of countries allied to the US. After the leaks by Edward Snowden in 2013, the world had come to realize how much the US intelligence had intruded to so many areas that it shouldn’t have. But it now appears that
Judy Dick Manager
the spying software has been in use for almost 15 years and in that period, countless of social and political upheavals have cost many lives and billions and billions of dollars in losses in financial collapses and created mayhem all over the world. Was the NSA in a position to prevent, preempt or even help soften the impact of so many tragedies that occurred, let alone in other countries, in the US? Over the period mentioned, there were many incidents that cost many lives in our southern neigh-
Mustafa Eric Regional Editor
Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter
bour. But leave everything aside, was the NSA unable to detect and prevent the financial meltdown of 2008, which caused a massive collapse in the global economy. Probably yes, because the cyber security firm, which disclosed the scope of NSA spying using hard drives said it had also identified that the software was used to collect information from personal computers of bankers worldwide. George Orwell also wrote the “Animal Farm”, a novel, in which the portrait of an egalitar-
Amelia Naismith Reporter
manager@ponokanews.com editorial@ponokanews.com reporter@ponokanews.com rovingreporter@ponokanews.com 5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R6 Phone: 403.783.3311 Fax: 403.783.6300 Email: editorial@ponokanews.com Published every Wednesday by PNG Prairie Newspaper Group in community with: Regional Publisher, Fred Gorman All editorial content, advertising content and concepts are protected by copyright. Unauthorized use is forbidden.
ian society slowly changes with some equal members of the society becoming “more equal” than others and ultimately turning into ruthless rulers. Is this a case of the omens foretold in Orwell novels coming in full circle: A “big brother” state functioning to serve the “more equal“ members of the society by seeing and knowing everything but not acting when the less equals might suffer huge losses while elites like bankers just get richer with the support of their governments?
Karen Douglass Sales
Susan Whitecotton Administration
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PONOKA NEWS 7
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Preliminary hearing set for group kidnappers BY AMELIA NAISMITH
In their fifth appearance in court on Friday Feb. 13, the second time the group was slated to provide plea and election, the proceedings of the seven co-accused in the late-2014 kidnapping have been adjourned until Friday Feb. 27. Christine Kirkeby (29) of Red Deer, Shane Kerik (42) of Lacombe County, Tyler Scott (21) of Red Deer, Lane Dickson (19) of Red Deer, Ashley Shewchuk (28) of Ponoka, Zackary Purdy (24) of Innisfail and James Miller-Laney (28) of Ponoka, are facing joint charge of break, enter and commit robbery using a firearm, assault with the intent to steal while armed with an offensive weapon, use a firearm during kidnapping, carry imitation of a weapon, utter threats to kill and unlawful confinement. An arrest warrant was released for Kirkeby, who still has no legal representation and has missed two consecutive court appearances since he was released on bail. Miller-Laney is also without council. A warrant to hold was issued for Feb. 27, as he missed the Friday, Feb. 13 date due to transportation issues. A preliminary hearing on the case has been set for Nov. 23 and 24, starting at 9:30 a.m. Man threatens officers’ lives, sentenced After threatening RCMP officers’ lives and refusing to provide a breath sample, a Red Deer man has been sentenced to a $100 fine and 31 days in jail. On Dec. 5, 2014, Ponoka Integrated Traffic Unit received a complaint of two vehicles stopped at a Highway 2 intersection near Blackfalds. Allegedly, the drivers were yelling at each other. Awai Deng, 43, was found outside of one of the cars, parked along the edge of the highway. When officers arrived at the scene, he was on his cell phone, apparently looking for a signal. Deng then got back into the vehicle and attempted to close its door several times, but one of the members got a hold of it. Once Deng noticed the constable, he kept repeating, “you no beat me.” Deng has been a Canadian citizen since 2002 but originally hails from South Sudan, he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder. At the time of the incident, officers could smell alcohol on Deng’s breath. When he was put into the cruiser, he became angry and said he would kill the officers. At the Ponoka detachment, Deng refused to follow the directions to provide a breath sample. Judge W. Andreassen is allowing Deng to serve his 31 days intermittently to ac-
commodate doctor appointments and a surgery schedule needed to treat a serious and prolonged back injury. Uninsured driver sentenced A Calgary man faces jail time after being sentenced in Ponoka provincial court on Feb. 13. Nicholas Delorenzo, 36, was stopped by a Ponoka Sheriff on Dec. 14, 2014 for suspected impaired driving due to drugs. He was released but the next day it was discovered the plate on the vehicle he was driving had been stolen from Calgary. He knew it was stolen at the time of the incident. Delorenzo also did not have insurance on the vehicle he was driving. After pleading guilty to driving without insurance and possession of stolen property, he was handed fines of $2,875 and $2,000, respectively. However, he requested to serve his penalty in custody, 45 days for driving without insurance and four for possessing the stolen license plate. Cocaine, baton seized A man found with cocaine on his body and in his vehicle was sentenced to time in custody and fines after pleading guilty. On June 28, 2014 Ponoka RCMP received a complaint of a suspected impaired driver on Highway 2. Members found the vehicle and the driver, Cory Neitz, 40, at the Ponoka McDonalds parking lot. Police believed there were drugs in the vehicle and Neitz was arrested. A search of his person and vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately four grams of cocaine. A collapsible baton—a prohibited weapon—was also seized from the vehicle. He has a prior criminal record but no previous drug charges. Judge W. Andreassen ordered him to pay a $1,000 fine and 30 days in custody. “Suspicious” male found with stolen car A man who pled guilty to failing to appear and possession of property obtained by crime was sentenced to 60 days in custody and $300 in fines. On Dec. 12, 2014, police received a call of a suspicious male on a rural property near Lacombe. The accused, Brandon Orlesky, had asked the landowner for gas, which the person refused. The landowner then followed the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Orlesky was driving and wrote down the licence plate number. The vehicle was found to be stolen and Orlesky was arrested. He has already served 35 days in jail and taken at time and a half, has been credited with 52 days served out of the 60 sentenced.
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Town Times
Ponoka, AB T4J 1P7 Ph: 403-783-4431 | Fax: 403-783-6745 | Email: town@ponoka.org Or Check us out Online: www.ponoka.ca
NOTICES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Important Reminder! To avoid a ticket or a tow, please obey the NO PARKING signs in place to allow Town Crews to work safely and completely clear snow from our streets. Residents have 48 hours to clear the sidewalk in front of their homes and properties after a snowfall. The bylaw relating to these activities is Traffic Bylaw 200-06. We have posted it on the home page of our website for your convenience. The 2015 Snow Removal Routes Map is also posted on the home page - www.ponoka.ca. Thank you for doing your part to make us all Ponoka Proud!
Family Day Thank You! The Town of Ponoka would like to extend a “Thank you” to all of our sponsors and volunteers who made our Family Day activities possible! And of course, a thank you to the families that came out to celebrate and enjoy the day!
EVENTS AND RECREATION Ponoka F.C.S.S. March 26th 12-1pm at Ponoka FCSS Boardroom - Break the Cycle April 9th 12-1pm at Ponoka FCSS Boardroom - Credit I.Q. April 23rd 12-1pm at Ponoka FCSS Boardroom - Enrich Your Kids (please do not bring kids to course)
Seniors needing transportation to go walking at the Ag Event Centre any Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, call Shelly @403.783.4462 Tuesday March 3rd, 2015 at Ponoka Legion from 1pm-3:30pm Ponoka FCSS and Alberta Council on Aging presents: Recognizing Fraud Presentation (Everyone Welcome)
Road Trips to Red Deer! FCSS will cover all busing costs. Seniors and friends, family, grandchildren, must cover the price of show tickets. $25 February 28th – Wrong Turn at Lungfish (Comedy)
Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake! Friday February 27th at Leisure Lanes Bowling Centre in Ponoka To form a team, be a sponsor or make a donation call 403.783.3112 Library News 3rd ANNUAL DINNER AT THE LIBRARY: Ponoka Jubilee Library is hosting its 3rd Annual Dinner at the Library on Thursday February 26th from 6:00-8:00. It’s a POTLUCK, so we ask everyone who attends to bring one item; the Library will provide beverages, buns, plates & cutlery. Please sign up at the Library with your dish of choice. FAMILY LEGO CLUB: Ponoka Jubilee Library invites children & adults to take part in our Family Lego Club. Come build whatever your imagination can come up with! All Lego will be provided by the library, and the masterpieces will be put on display for all to see. UPCOMING MEETINGS: Friday February 20th, Thursday March 5th and Friday March 20th from 3:30pm - 5:00pm. REGULAR MEETINGS: Every second week, alternating between Thursday and Friday. Ages 4+, all younger children must be accompanied or supervised by older sibling or guardian. No Lego bricks will come into or leave the library. No fee or registration required.
Aquaplex Update PD day/Teachers convention swim 1-3pm on Feb 13th, Feb 19 & 20th.
Public Skating:
Proudly sponsored by Ponoka Lions Monday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Saturday & Sunday: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm **Shinny Hockey on Weekdays only** Outdoor Rink Hours are Dawn - 11pm, please use responsibly.
COUNCIL UPDATES & BYLAW INFO Next Town Council Meeting February 24, 2015 @ 7 pm. Visit our website @ www.ponoka.ca for copy of the agenda.
DID YOU KNOW...??? Recycle your newspaper whenever you can. Each year, 10 million tons of newspapers are not recycled, but thrown away in landfills. If we changed this habit together, we could save up to 75 million trees.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “The most valuable lesson man has learned from his dog is to kick a few blades of grass over it and move on.” ~ Robert Brault
8 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
BABIES OF 2014 WINNER!
EASTON MARK MAIER
Let the sunshine in: Harry and Eleanor White enjoy a brisk walk in the Heritage Barns of the Calnash Ag Event Centre Wednesday, Feb. 4 as part of Winter Walk Day. The event was hosted by Family and Community Support Services and residents at Legacy Place also enjoyed a fun walk at the lodge.
is depositing $100 into his new Fat Cat Savings account at the local Servus Credit Union. Shown in the photo are Ponoka News manager Judy Dick (right), Easton and his mom Holly, and Charlene Campbell, Servus Assistant Manager Member Service. One year old Easton won the cash in a random draw Babies of 2014 promotion courtesy of the Ponoka News.
Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
PONOKA BRIDAL GALA 2015 A day to meet the wedding specialists and plan your
perfect day. Friday, February 27 Kinsmen Community Centre 5009 – 46 Ave. Ponoka • Doors open at 6:30 pm • Free admission – Brides & Guests • Bridal fashion show • Exciting door prizes • Special displays • Gift bag for first 50 brides • Grand prize for brides (value $2000) Brides’ pre-registration required To pre-register, please email: amanda@newbeginningfashion.com
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PONOKA NEWS 9
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Fake tornado prepares county emergency disaster plans BY AMELIA NAISMITH
When an imaginary tornado swept through the county of Ponoka, Ponoka County and corresponding disaster relief services were prepared for action. Wednesday, Feb. 11 saw members of Ponoka County staff, Ponoka RCMP, Ponoka Fire Department, Alberta Health Services, the Summer Village of Parkland Beach and Family Community Sup-
port Services (FCSS), as well as others participating in a tabletop mock disaster exercise to ensure a plan can quickly be executed in the event of a real scenario. “We want to exercise and refresh elected officials in their roles,” said consultant Ken Kendall. Kendall took participants through the first several days following a disaster, should the aftermath require that much attention; outlining the
hierarchy of command, procedures and decisions. “In an emergency, responsibilities and all decisions go to the director of emergency management,” said Kendall. “Council takes a step back.” In the case of an emergency, the task would belong to county CAO Charlie Cutforth. During the exercise, Kendall was sure to go over when and how a state of lo-
cal emergency can be called, as some municipalities did not know how in the face of a real emergency. Under the exercise scenario, on July 11, 2015 a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for central Alberta. By that afternoon, Environment Canada had activated the Alberta Emergency Alert due to a tornado that had touched down outside of Rimbey. With the strong winds
gusting through Ponoka County, power is out throughout the county and phone and cell service is intermittent. “In some cases, you guys might actually have to use runners,” said Kendall The tornado struck Parkland Beach, Deer Park and Raymond Shores; as well as the campground in Rimbey. Following a disaster in the area, Ponoka Fire Chief Ted Dillon and RCMP staff Sgt. Cameron Chisholm
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were instructed on their first steps of action, including surveying the area and reporting back to Cutforth on the damages and casualties. “But I’ve got to remember this is a Saturday in July, manpower is going to be down” said Dillon. Under Cutforth, the positions for operations, planning, logistics, liaison, safety, information and deputy would be filled. Depending on the damages, heavy equipment would be brought in and staging areas would be set up. The team was told the first priority of an incident command system is lives and public safety. Once those affected are safe, it comes down to aftermath attention. “After that it’s just cleanup,” said Kendall. Under coaching from the fire department, emergency medical services would notify hospitals on the gravity of the situation. Being July, in a lake area, the high number of tourists would be an added challenge. “It goes way beyond just the residents out there,” said Cutforth. Because of summer weather, hydration would also be a concern. For incidents that take longer than 12 hours, fatigue, lighting and food must all be addressed. FCSS would be in charge of an information gathering centre for the possible couple of thousand people affected, as well as pets. In an emergency, a high percentage of people will leave the area to stay with family and friends, making it difficult to keep track of the safe, injured, dead and missing. FCSS director Shannon Boyce-Campbell feels an online registry site would be an effective tracking tool. “I’m unaware if anything has been set up provincially,” said Kendall. County Coun. Mark Matejka was eager to find out what the councilors could do following an emergency. Kendall says their best option is to stay in touch with the public and continually feed them information on relief efforts and other necessary information “Public information is going to be huge here,” said Kendall. The county exercise was one in a series of three to be completed by May 1. Kendall says the Town of Ponoka will have a similar exercise in addition to a more comprehensive regional one.
10 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Education development continues for FNMI students BY AMELIA NAISMITH
A recent trip to Saskatchewan has created a number of new ideas for Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) division to help aid First Nations, Metis and Inuit (FNMI) students in educational success. FNMI student success co-ordinator Shelia Hagemann, superintendent Larry Jacobs and assistant superintendent of inclusive learning services Amber Hester took the trip to tour a number of Saskatchewan school divisions. In a presentation she made to the WCPS board of trustees on Wednesday, Feb. 4, Hagemann said every division across Saskatchewan is unified in working toward two goals, the first one being closing the cultural gap when it comes to FNMI students in schools. She says the schools work to make sure most every aspect of the education system can be geared toward the students. “They want to make sure they have cultural identity for the students.” “Parental involvement is huge for them,” she added. Teachers will routinely hold parent-teacher meetings on the reserves for better access for the families. This is a strategy the Ponoka Outreach School has been using for years. Trustee Bob Huff was concerned that with so many programs in WCPS, the division would be in direct competition with schools in the Maskwacis community. Hagemann says everybody is happy to get along and work together with the students as the common goal.
“The best place to make a change is in the classroom.” Shelia Hagemann, FNMI student success coordinator at WCPS
Teachers in the Saskatchewan schools are geared to be culturally responsive and in some schools areas are decorated with powwow themes and rooms are set aside for cultural traditions such as smudging. “They really wanted to make sure that there was a cultural space within the school that is a target for FNMI,” Hagemann explained. In the schools, staff members regularly meet with the FNMI students to monitor their sense of engagement and belonging. Physical resources such as books, hides and traps are also brought into the schools to teach all students about FNMI culture. “It’s huge in Saskatchewan, the treaty teachings. All teachers need to teach in the classrooms about the treaties and in understanding what that is. The treaties isn’t a document that’s in the past, the treaties is still ongoing,” said Hagemann. “They also wanted to make sure they worked closely with their community. They were creating a community that would raise the children together,” said Hagemann. The schools also take an interest in student involvement in communities, such as employment in the
registered apprenticeship programs and work experience opportunities. This is an idea WCPS has looked into in the past. In order to help teachers develop cultural competencies many travel to New Zealand to see how the country finds success with aboriginal students. “They probably have one of the most advanced systems in the world when it comes to dealing with aboriginals,” said Jacobs. Schools in Saskatchewan have employed an academic adoption program. If a student’s grades slip down to an area of concern, a teacher ‘adopts’ the student. Not only do they work with them academically, but look into the causes of the trouble. For example if the student is not at school one day, the teacher will look into it. This is an arrangement Hagemann is excited to further develop in WCPS. “And some of this work is already started, it just needs some tweaking.” While Hagemann brought many ideas back, there were also many parallels found with practices WCPS already have. Parts of Saskatchewan use bodies similar to WCPS Wisdom and Guidance Committee and bring elders right into the classroom, just like WPCS Elders Program. “The best place to make a change is in the classroom,” said Hagemann. Huff feels Hagemann should also make her presentation to Ponoka County, as some of Maskwacis falls in the county. “I think this is how we need to start, we need to network out there.”
TOWN OF PONOKA SNOW REMOVAL PARKING BYLAW ENFORCEMENT NOTICE
SIDEWALK CLEARING WITHIN 48 HOURS OF A SNOWFALL
Avoid a ticket or a tow. Obey the sign or pay the üne.
BYLAW ENFORCEMENT NOTICE
When Town Crews are working to remove and grade roads after snow falls, Ponoka residents are expected to move their vehicle after NO PARKING SIGNS are in place. Parking is not permitted until snow removal crews have removed the signs and completed their work. Please ünd an alternate place to park until the work is done! If a car is not moved when plows arrive, we will have it removed as per Town Traþc Bylaw No. 200-06 – During Snow Removal or Street Cleaning, part 118-119. The registered owner will be subject to the Prosecution Oûences as per Town of Ponoka Traþc Bylaw No. 200-06, part 120-123 A-B stating that you may receive an oûence ticket. Remember to drive with patience and courtesy around large equipment, as operators require time and space to safely do this job.
Town Bylaw 200-06 part 83 requires residents to remove and clear away all snow and ice from their property 48 hours of a snowfall. Please be a good citizen and help your neighbours, especially those who are elderly, ill or incapable of clearing their own sidewalks or driveways. If snow and ice are not removed within the 48 hour period you will be subject to the Town of Ponoka’s Bylaw No. 200-06 part 84-85. Do your part and be Ponoka Proud! Thank you for keeping your sidewalk clear of snow. Do your part and be Ponoka Proud! We thank everyone who plays their part to assist Town crews at work. The complete Bylaw, Snow FAQs and the 2015 Snow Removal Routes map are on the * The complete Bylaw, Snow FAQs and the 2015 Snow Removal Routes map are on the web - www.ponoka.ca web - www.ponoka.ca ; For more information please visit us on Facebook and Twitter, ; For more information please visit us on Facebook and Twitter, or call 403-783-4431 or call 403-783-4431 Below is an excerpt taken from Traþc Bylaw No.200-06 located on the website in full go to: www.ponoka.ca > Town Hall > Administration
DURING SNOW REMOVAL OR STREET CLEANING 118. Notwithstanding anything herein contained, in conjunction with snow removal, street cleaning or road repair operations carried on by the Town employees or contractors, the Town may tow or remove vehicles from the street being cleaned, cleared or repaired and, without impounding them, may remove them to an adjacent street. In the case of removal of vehicles from streets within the downtown area (the area bounded on the East by 50th Street, on the West by 52nd Street, on the North by 53rd Avenue, and on the South by 45th Avenue, as shown on SCHEDULED [map of the downtown core]), the vehicles may be towed to the parking lot located on 54th Street East of the Ponoka Arena. 119. Where a vehicle is driven, used, parked or left in contravention of any provision of this Bylaw or as shown on Schedule A [truck routes, commercial and industrial areas], the owner of the vehicle is liable for the contravention and shall make payment of the penalty prescribed herein unless there is evidence before the court that at the time of the contravention, the vehicle was not driven, used, parked or left by him or by any other person with his consent, express or implied.
REMOVAL OF SNOW AND OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS FROM SIDEWALKS 83.All persons owning, occupying or controlling premises in the following areas of the Town shall remove and clear away all snow, ice, dirt, and other obstructions from the sidewalk in any highway adjoining such premises within 48 hours of the time that such snow, ice, dirt, or other obstruction was deposited thereon; 84. The Town may, after the termination of the 48 hours aforesaid, remove and clear away all snow, dirt, and other obstruction required to be removed by Section 83. 85. The owner, occupant, or person controlling the premises shall make payment on demand to the Town of all costs of removal under Section 83.
PONOKA NEWS 11
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Ponoka County aerial photos budgeted BY AMELIA NAISMITH
Updated aerial photos are being included in Ponoka County’s 2015 budget. The process will cost approximately $4,500. CAO Charlie Cutforth says the county has not had photos taken since 2007. “And there’s been substantial change since then.” he stressed. With improved technology, the photos will offer digital renditions of the topography of the land, which will be a benefit when it comes to planning, subdivisions and rezoning applications. “It shows the flood potential,” Cutforth told the councillors. The photos can also be sold to higher-level governments and oil companies. Cutforth believes that within a few years the county could make its money back. FCM membership opportunity declined At their Tuesday, Feb. 10 meeting county councillors elected to bypass membership to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). Reeve Paul McLauchlin feels Ponoka County does not have much in common with the municipalities of eastern Canada. “I don’t think they’re elected to represent me at a federal level.” The council also felt, with Ponoka County being a rural municipality, it did not receive as much attention as larger municipalities would; an issue it already faces in Alberta, let alone the rest of Canada. “Its primary role is advocacy,” said Cutforth. “But isn’t that what we do with our own association, provincially?” A membership would have cost the county $1,500. “I can’t fathom the value of it,” said Coun. Mark Matejka.
Gull Lake residents troubled by sewer issues BY AMELIA NAISMITH
The landowners of Raymond Shores face growing concerns as sewer line problems that plagued the community have created mounting costs for them. Over the last few winters, frost in the ground has caused sewer pipes to shift and separate, allowing groundwater to infiltrate. “What has happened after last winter, our infiltration in our sewer system had expanded a lot,” said developer
Bob Dawson. Engineering services have proposed a method of using heated tape, hoping it will insulate the pipes and solve the issue. Action was taken over the summer to enter the sewer system, find the problem areas and push the pipes back together. “There was a number of them that pulled apart,” said Dawson. He says approximately 80 homes needed some sort of repairs out of the 296 in the gated com-
munity. However, some homeowners are less than impressed with the efforts undertaken to address the problem. Two owners spoke with Ponoka News on condition of anonymity. The two homeowners feel the issue has gotten worse over time and that action was not taken quickly enough. Between the months of July and September 2014, affected landowners received a notice that they had to make
their sewer lines accessible for cameras to enter them and find the infiltration. This required the tops of the lines to be cut and a cap installed. “Everyone supposedly had to do that,” said one landowner. In September, after the cameras were installed and the landowners received an email from Sunreal Property Management, “saying our lot was one of the ones needing repair,” said the other landowner. continued on page 12
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VJV MARKET REPORT MARKET REPORT FEBRUARY 11, 2015
On Wednesday, February 11, 2015 - 2098 head of cattle went through our rings & 321 head on the Canadian Satellite sale - TOTAL - 2419
SLAUGHTER CATTLE D1 - D2 cows D3 - D4 cows Holstein cows Heiferettes Bologna Bulls Feeder bulls
125.00 -141.00 105.00-122.00 95.00-122.00 140.00-165.00 140.00-165.00 145.00-170.00
Good Bred Cows 1700.00-2500.00 Older Bred Cows N/A Good Bred Heifers: N/A Cow/calf pairs (younger) NONE Cow/Calf pairs (older) N/A
STOCKERS AND FEEDERS Good Feeder Steers 1000 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 900 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 800 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 700 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 600 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 500 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 400 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 300 lbs Plus:
200.00-221.00 220.00-235.00 235.00-251.00 255.00-270.00 275.00-300.00 300.00-330.00 325.00-350.00 350.00-395.00
Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers
Dairy Steers Baby Calves Dairy Type: Baby Calves Beef Type: Hay: Sq Bales Straw: Sq. Bales Greenfeed: Sq. Bales.
NONE 100.00-300.00 250.00-550.00 3.00-7.00 1.50-2.50 NONE
Rd Bales Rd Bales Rd Bales
185.00-209.00 200.00-200.00 215.00-239.00 230.00-247.00 250.00-274.00 275.00-295.00 300.00-320.00 320.00-365.00
BERTA
R, AL E E D D E R – K R A TERNER P
N O I S S I M FREE AD WES
FRIDAY
Feb. 20th 10am - 8:00pm
SATURDAY Feb. 21st 10am - 8:00pm
SUNDAY
Feb. 22nd 10am - 5:00pm
1.800.356.9399
50.00-86.00 NONE NONE
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1.800.668.2438
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12 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Raymond Shores sewer issues continued from page 11 In October, The Trenchless Guys were hired to reline the pipes. “We weren’t given an opportunity to find out about how this really was going to work,” he added, referring to the mandated option. As of Oct. 1, the board of Raymond Shores had not decided who would be covering the costs but landowners were told they would be informed as soon as one of three funding options was chosen. Mid-October the sewer was relined. On Dec. 12 the two landowners received an invoice for the relining 15 feet pipes totaling $3,360, due Dec. 31, 2014. The two landowners say they refused to pay the bill, as did others and have received a corresponding late notice. One landowner says he never had an issue making the pipes accessible for the camera and would not mind paying a portion of the bill but does not feel landowners should be held accountable for that much money. “I understand Sunreal needs access (to my sewer) but how do they have the right to spend my money?” In a list sent out by Sunreal on June 24, the landowner’s lot was not labeled as needing repairs. Raymond Shores is located on northeast end of Gull Lake and the oldest developments in the community are not quite a decade old. “If this thing was 20 to 30 years old. I could see a sewer problem at a house,” said one of the two landowners interviewed. “Raymond Shores is (approximately) eight years old, problems could have occurred in that time,” said assistant CAO Tom Webber of Ponoka County. Another concern for the two landowners is that the pipes have never been inspected. However, Webber says condominium communities are different than other types of rural subdivisions. “What happens on a major construction job like that is the (responsibility of) developer, he hires an engineering firm to
oversee the construction.” He added that it would not be up to the county to send an inspector to check the pipes. Webber says in condominium communities, everyone shares the liability of the system. “It’s unfortunate but it is what it is.” Another concern of the landowners is that the sewer pipes may come from Florida and are not warranted; only the plumber’s work is warranted. However many plumbers use pipes manufactured in the United States and as long as it is Canadian standards approved (CSA) there is not an issue; Webber says the pipes are CSA approved. Pipes themselves also are not usually warranted; only a one-year manufacturer warranty for parts and labour would stand, according to central Al-
berta plumbing expertise. No one was available to speak to the issue of payment. In an email to Ponoka News, Sunreal representative Mike Stevens says the Raymond Shores board cannot comment on the issue because “they do not have the expertise to comment with certainty.”
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PONOKA NEWS 13
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Holocaust survivor looks to better Ponoka and the world BY AMELIA NAISMITH
Both Bashaw and Ponoka were drawn into an eye-opening experience as Hungarian Jewish Holocaust survivor Eva Olsson visited the communities last week on her mission to change the future of the world. Olsson spoke at the Bashaw United Church on Monday, Feb. 9, at Bashaw School on Feb. 10 and at St. Augustine Catholic School in Ponoka, also on Feb. 10 Since 1996, she’s visited more than 3,000 schools, churches, military bases, communities across Canada and the United States, as well as the United Nations. Sharing her experiences from under the Nazi regime, she is spreading the message of the importance of legacies in an effort to change people’s minds and rid the world of hate. As the lives of 6 million Jews were taken by the Nazis, Olsson’s life was forever changed by the three people who had the biggest impact on her own life; her mother, her father and Hitler. “What did I learn from my mom? Never give up,” said Olsson. Olsson was born in Hungary, and before even getting pregnant with her, her mother was sickly. The doctor ordered an abortion, but Olsson’s mother decided on bed rest for eight months while she already had several other children living in the two-room shed they owned, as the family could not afford a house. “Most of us bond with our mothers, it was no different with me. The difference is I wasn’t supposed to be born,” said Olsson. From her mother, as they went from Jewish Hungarian family to a several million-body collection of people unfairly persecuted, Olsson says she learned the trait of perseverance and the value of a human life. This is also the lesson Olsson passed down to her younger sister, who was one month shy of 17 years old when the family arrived at Auschwitz-Birkenau. “I asked myself who could do this. Animals? Animals don’t treat each other this way,” said Olsson. She says only people can cre-
ate and condone genocide, people consumed by hate. Hate was the cause of the Holocaust, says Olsson. “Mostly I talk about bullying and hate,” said Olsson. While everybody can learn something listening to Olsson’s incredible journey, her message is directed at the children of the world. “You’re the future,” said Olsson addressing children at the St. Augustine Catholic School. She says she has not been in a school anywhere in Canada or the United States where children are not bullying each other. Now living in Ontario, Olsson says because her grandson is Jewish, even nowadays he is still a victim of hate because of his ancestry. While in Grade 10, attending an Ontario school, a schoolmate called her grandson a “stupid Jew.” She says it was not the name calling that was the real problem for him; it was the teacher standing beside him that took no action. Rather than going to the principal the grandson went to a newspaper and the teacher was shortly thereafter removed from the school. At 21 years old, he graduated from Queen’s University with two degrees. “Now you have to be pretty stupid to achieve that,” Olsson told the crowd. Hate breeds hate, but her
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grandson refused to follow. Rather than getting mad, he chose dialogue and communication, which Olsson says is the only solution. Although he was not a bad man, Olsson says she was gifted the legacy of dishonesty from her father; something she carried with her into adulthood and to Canada. Growing up, Olsson, on her parent’s wishes, never attended school. After she was widowed in Canada, she could not read or write. In public, she would lie to cover her perceived shortcomings. “One day I looked in the mirror and said ‘who are you?’” At 39 years old, she decided if people did not like her because she less educated that was their choice. “I had the courage to free myself from that negativity. I had the courage to walk through that door. A door that had always been open,” said Olsson. “And then there’s the legacy passed on by Hitler,” said Olsson. The day Olsson and the 18 other members of her family were taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau, they were told they were being relocated to a brick factory in Germany. Everyone, the youngest being two months old, was made to walk seven kilometers to the waiting railway cars. Inside, 100 to 110 people were crammed together
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with little oxygen and human waste covering the floor. For four days they travelled and when they arrived at the concentration camp people were relieved at the thought of water and fresh air. “The air that hit us was nauseating, black smoke covered the skies,” said Olsson. Within two hours of arrival most of the members of her family had been killed. As she looked in line one last time to see her mother Olsson’s mind flashed back to a time when she was approximately 10 years old and her mother was telling the children the story about how the Egyptians had enslaved the Israelites. “History had repeated itself,” said Olsson. Without a change in human thinking, Olsson says history will always repeat itself, and that is why she has been working for the last 19 years to make a difference in the next generation. One of the reasons she spends her time presenting her experiences from the Holocaust, and the ultimate
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Eva Olsson done more than 3,500 presentations across the northwestern hemisphere in her mission to rid the world of hate. She spoke at the Bashaw United Church on Monday, Feb. 9, at Bashaw School on Feb. 10 and at St. Augustine Catholic School in Ponoka also on Feb. 10. Photo by Amelia Naismith
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14 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Alberta’s winter isn’t easy on the eyes Ponoka optometrist helps patients combat dry eye disease SUBMITTED
It’s February – the dead of winter. By now, any remaining moisture has been sucked from the air and Alberta’s dry winter climate has taken hold. For many Albertans, this time of year brings on the aggravating symptoms of dry eye. “Dry eye is one of the most common conditions that I see on a daily basis, especially in the winter,” says Dr. Ward ZoBell of Drs. Heimdahl & ZoBell. “The symptoms can range anywhere from annoying to debilitating, and finding the right treatment can be a challenge.” Alberta’s environment is just one of the factors that can lead to the condition, which occurs when eyes don’t produce enough quality tears. Heavy reading or digital device use, prolonged contact lens wear, hormonal imbalances and certain medications including those for high blood pressure and rheumatoid arthritis are also common contributors to the development of the disease. “My patients deal with a wide variety of symptoms,” says Dr. ZoBell. “Some say their vision is blurry or that their eyes are sensitive to light. Others complain about a scratchy or gritty feeling, and say that sometimes it feels like something is stuck in their eye.” In some cases, the eyes may try to create more tears in response to dryness, resulting in excessive watering. Doctors of Optometry ask a series of questions and conduct specialized tests to diagnose dry eye. “Dry eye can cause permanent tissue damage if left untreated, so it’s really important to see your optometrist if you are having problems,” says Dr. ZoBell. There is no cure for dry eye, but it can be managed with help from a Doctor of Optometry. Treatment options include lifestyle and diet modifications, prescribed eye medications, over-the-counter eye lubrications, in-office eyelid procedures and at home self-treatments. There are also ways to manage symptoms on a day-to-day basis: · Avoid pollution and irritants. Avoid rubbing your
eyes, which can disturb the tear film and transfer irritants to your eyes. · Hydrate. If you are dehydrated, the fluid in your eyes can be depleted, so drink lots of liquids. · Take special care with contact lenses. Contact lenses can soak up the fluid in your eye. Keep them
clean, and try not to wear them all the time. · Blink! Try to blink every five seconds, especially when staring at your computer screen or digital device. · Book an appointment. The best way to get a proper diagnosis and treatment, is to see a Doctor of Optom-
etry. In Alberta the cost for an annual eye exam is covered for children and teens up to age 19 and adults 65 years and older. To book your annual eye exam, visit www.optometrists.ab.ca/ find-an-optometrist. Early detection is key in the successful treatment of any eye disease.
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PONOKA NEWS 15
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
NFU testifies against Bill C-18 before Senate BY AMELIA NAISMITH
The National Farmers Union’s (NFU) Seed and Trade Committee recently testified on Bill C-18, known as the Agricultural Growth Act, before the Senate’s Agriculture and Trade Committee, which is reviewing the bill’s purported benefits. NFU Board Chair Terry Boehm appeared as witness at the Senate committee’s hearing on Feb. 3. The NFU has long believed the changes Bill C-18 will have on Canada’s plant breeders’ rights’ will cause a breakdown of democracy and adversely affect farmers. “Our presentation argued that Bill C-18’s changes to the plant breeders’ rights legislation, making it conform with UPOV ’91, are completely unbalanced,” said Boehm in a press release out of Saskatoon. During the same hearing, positions stated by international plant breeders’ rights experts Pat Mooney of ECT Group and Devlin Kuyek of GRAIN, both reiterated Boehm’s opinion. “Bill C-18 is not about fostering innovation. It is about giving the plant breeders powerful tools to extract wealth from farmers through the control of seeds,” Boehm continued in the release. NFU Region 5 (Manitoba) Co-ordinator Ian Robson, who is also quoted in the NFU press release, believes, with Bill C-18, the government is rescinding its promise to continue public plant breeding. In an interview with Ponoka News, Robson said the public would turn crop research over for patented royalty. “We’re making a call for the public to be aware of what is going on,” said Robson. “The public has to assess if that’s a good thing.”
In the past, huge innovations have been accomplished by public plant breeding, says Robson. With Bill C-18 the government is discrediting that work.
“We’re making a call for the public to be aware of what is going on.” Ian Robson, NFU Region 5 coordinator
“It almost looks like the public is going to turn that work over to private com-
panies,” said Robson. He deems the chance of international private companies spending a great focus to develop seeds that can withstand Canada’s environment to be slim. “It’s completely possible for Canada to reject UPOV ’91 and go our own way,” said Robson. He feels Canada’s government is misguided in its view of the changes effects and is rushing with the bill. “I guess Canadians can put a bunch of pressure on the Senate to send it back to the House of Commons,” said Robson. Another option is for the Senate to turn down the bill. “Democracy is supposed to be in the hands of the people,” said Robson. “Democracy depends on a confident news system to inform the public and it (democracy) depends on the public.”
Current(cies) perspective FARMLEAD BY BRENNAN TURNER
On Tuesday, Feb. 10, the U.S.D.A. came out with its monthly W.A.S.D.E. report and while U.S. ending stocks were dropped, the market reacted as “blah” and ended down for the day. U.S. soybean demand was lifted by exports (up 20 million bushels to 1.79 billion) and domestic crush (up 15 million bushels to 1.795 billion), leading to a net 2014/15 carryout of 385 million bushels. This, however, is a significant increase from the 92 million bushels America ended the 2013/14 marketing year with. On the corn side of things, ending stocks were dropped by 50 million bushels to 1.827 billion, thanks to an increase in corn-for-ethanol use, despite the E.P.A. still not setting a target yet of how much ethanol is to be
produced this year. On the wheat side of things, ending stocks were a little higher as exports were downgraded thanks to more global competition as a result of a stronger U.S. Dollar. Globally, wheat ending stocks are seen growing by 1.85 million tonnes to 197.85 million, thanks to higher carryouts in Australia, Canada, and former Soviet Union states. World corn ending stocks were upgraded by 500,000 tonnes to 189.64 million but soybean ending stocks dropped by 1.5 million tonnes to 89.26 million. Partially to blame for the decrease, the Brazilian crop was downgraded by only one million tonnes by the U.S.D.A. to 94.5 million, well above the 91.9 million forecasted by AgRural, the 94.7M tonnes estimated by CONAB (Brazil’s version of the U.S.D.A.), and German
analyst Oil World, who’s at 89 million tonnes. The downgrade was attributed to the drier weather in January but recent rains have led to more estimates getting upgraded for the Brazilian corn crop. Speaking of rains, timely precipitation in November and December helped boost the Australian crop, according to A.B.A.R.E.S. (the Aussie version of the U.S.D.A.) What does it all mean? Hedge funds continue to cut their net long position in the agricultural market. More analysts are making the call though that the bottom of the wheat market has been seen (we made that call last week), but there are those who think that grain prices are likely to become more volatile thanks to more outside, speculative money entering the market. continued on page 16
16 PONOKA NEWS
continued from page 15 Whatever this fresh money thinks, fundamentals continue to point to lower soybean prices (another call we’ve been making) – even some analysts are pointing below a $8-per-bushel handle if yields are above trendline in the U.S. (combined with the big South American crop and expected bigger acres in the U.S. this spring). With bean prices headed lower, there becomes a point where net returns to a U.S. farmer are basically the same, regardless if corn cobs or soybean pods grow on their land. Looking from at things from a Canadian perspective, with lower bean prices, this would put some tough pressure on canola prices, which have been generally resilient, thanks to a depreciated Canadian Loonie and decent domestic and export demand. To growth, Brennan Turner President, FarmLead.com Brennan Turner is originally from Foam Lake, SK, where his family started farming the land in the 1920s. After completing his degree in economics from Yale University and then playing some pro hockey, Mr. Turner spent some time working in finance before starting FarmLead.com, a risk-free, transparent online and now mobile grain marketplace (app available for iOS & Android). His weekly column is a summary of his free, daily market note, the FarmLead Breakfast Brief. He can be reached via email (b.turner@farmlead. com) or phone (1-855-3327653).
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
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PONOKA NEWS 17
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
GERALD “Hoover” HAYS February 12, 1956 – February 4, 2015 If ever there was a ‘larger than life’ character in pro rodeo, it was Hoover Hays. This wellknown steer wrestler, who made his home in Rocky Mountain House, was a friend to all. That was evident when he was given the prestigious honor of Cowboy of the Year by his peers in 2013. So his sudden passing last week at the age of 58 has the rodeo family in mourning. Steer wrestling was Hays’ game, and he used his size to great advantage. A second generation cowboy who was actually born in Florida, Hays tried riding bucking horses for a short time before ünding his calling in the bulldogging box. Hays won the FCA steer wrestling championship in 1980, and turned pro the next season. He made it to the Canadian Finals in 1991, and injury prevented him from getting another trip to Edmonton a year he’d qualiüed. Hays tasted rodeo success both sides of the border. For many years, he held the record for the fast time at the famous Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo (5.4 seconds in 1997) – a great source of pride for him. He was also in the record books for the number of times (13) he’d qualiüed for the Finals at Pendleton. He was also a regular at the Calgary Stampede, and was thrilled to be presented with the Guy Weadick Award in 2000, an honor which is given to a cowboy who best exempliües the spirit of the Stampede. Even after he’d quit climbing oû the back of the horse himself, Hays was still a regular on the rodeo trail, as he was a popular hazer. Then, to his great delight he was able to help his two sons Rowdy and J.D., as they launched their own pro steer wrestling careers, and accompany both of them to the CFR. Although his real name was Gerald, we all knew him as ‘Hoover’. That was a nickname stuck on him in his early days in the sport, and he’d chuckle as he’d relate how the name was related to his ability to make great quantities of food disappear at a rapid rate. Hoover loved to tell stories. He loved to laugh, and he loved to help people. Hays was a go-to guy for information. And that wasn’t just for the cowboys. He’d help rodeo announcers know the trades and splits in the steer wrestling line-up, after all the horse and rider arrangements had been made just before the performance. In the days of our producing our television show ‘Makin’ 8’, Hoover went out of his way to help whenever and wherever he could. Everybody on the crew knew him, and loved saying hello to him at the rodeos we covered. He was never without a mile-wide grin and a hearty handshake. He was a great interview and we all have memories of the stories he told around the campüre we couldn’t air! But Hoover was also a great encourager, for all young and aspiring cowboys. A quick search on Twitter in the days after word of his death came out revealed that. There were comments like “There was always an encouraging ‘good run’ when Hoov was at the arena”; “Thanks for all the advice and support”; “He never said no to anyone”; and “He made me a better cowboy and person”. Straws Milan of Cochrane won a saddle last week at a major steer wrestling jackpot in the U.S., and dedicated it to Hoover Hays. His brother Tanner, the current Canadian steer wrestling champion tweeted he was ‘cheerful in all weathers and an uncle to me’. Murray Milan is President of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association. He was a competitor alongside Hays, and a close friend. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re in Corpus Christi, Texas, or Luxton, British Columbia, mention the name ‘Hoover’ and people know who you’re talking about,” stated Milan. “If you’re at a rodeo and you need a truck, Hoover would give you his and ünd a way to get home.” “Whatever the circumstances, or the kind of day he’d been having in his own life, in the thirty plus years we were friends, I never, ever, ever heard him say a bad word about anybody or anything,” insisted the elder Milan. “This really hits home to me. It makes you appreciate people like him because there are so few of them around. It’s hard to move forward, but we have to. I’ll dearly miss him.” Another legendary cowboy, Will Rogers, once said ‘You must judge a man’s greatness by how much he will be missed’. It’s clear Gerald ‘Hoover’ Hays will be much missed by all those in the world of rodeo. A celebration of life for Gerald Hays, was held February 13th at the Calnash Ag Event Centre, Ponoka. To help his wife of 31 years, Kathy, and the boys at this diþcult time, a Facebook Hays family beneüt auction has been set up, or donations can be made at the Rocky Mountain House Credit Union. Memorial donations can also be made to the Cowboy Beneüt Fund at the CPRA. Submitted by Dianne Finstad
Meeting looks at success potential for cooperatives BY TREENA MIELKE BLACK PRESS
A cross section of residents and elected officials took part in a three-hour interactive meeting, which was held in Rimbey recently and conducted by a team of researchers from University of Saskatchewan’s Centre for the Study of Co-operatives.
About 45 people attended the meeting held at the Peter Lougheed Community Centre on Thursday, Jan. 29 to participate in the study entitled the Co-operative Innovation Project. The Rimbey meeting, also targeting neighbouring communities including Ponoka, was one of about 40 such gatherings being held in Alberta,
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Saskatchewan, Manitoba and British Columbia over the next three months. The meetings are the first stage of a two-year study being held to determine the social and economic characteristics of the communities in which co-operative development is most likely to succeed. Determining which communities have these characteristics is also part of the study. “The meetings are to determine the community’s needs and ability to come together and whether co-operative developments will work in these communities,” said Miranda Gouchie, research assistant. Rimbey Mayor Rick Pankiw said he found the meeting to be interesting and informative. “I thought it was really interesting and unique to learn what people perceive as problems.” Pankiw said he found the meeting to be similar to an Alberta Urban Municipalities Association conference. “Everyone has concerns, the hardest thing is finding the answers and it is always good to hear different views.” He said he would be looking forward to getting a report back regarding the comments. “Really at the end of the day, it seems we all struggle with similar issues,” he said, adding that lack of government funding often makes it difficult to find financial solutions to problems. Rimbey was one of the first Alberta communities visited by the university researchers. Information garnered at the meetings will be compiled and later published in print and electronic formats; reports could be used at conference presentations and in academic journals or books and names will not be used without prior consent. During the Rimbey meeting, participants were divided into groups and topics related to the community were discussed. Comments were confidential although it was not made clear why a gathering organized by a university on community issues would require confidentiality. The Co-operative Innovation Project is funded by Federated Co-operatives Limited in Saskatoon and the study has been approved by the University of Saskatchewan Advisory Committee on Ethics in Behavioral Research.
18 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Small business wants budget balanced through spending restraint, not tax hikes The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) released last week initial results from a survey of business owners about provincial budget issues that shows the vast majority of independent business owners believe balancing the books should be the top priority for the Alberta government in the upcoming budget. The survey results also show entrepreneurs overwhelmingly believe the challenge should be met by focusing on controlling spending, not hiking taxes. Small business owners were asked the following question: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: Balancing the budget should be a top priority for the Alberta government? Seventy-five per cent agreed, 17 per cent disagreed, and eight per cent didn’t know or were unsure. “Business owners know full well how important it is not to operate in the red. A string of deficits in the private sector almost certainly means the demise of that business. In the eyes of Alberta’s entrepreneurs, ensuring a balanced annual budget should clearly be top priority for their government,” stated Richard Truscott, Vice President, Alberta and BC, for CFIB. Entrepreneurs were also asked for their views on how to balance the books through the question: Provincial government revenues are at risk given the volatility of oil prices. Which of the following should the government focus on to ensure the budget is balanced? In response, 80 per cent picked “cut spending”, 46 per cent mentioned “defer/delay capital and infrastructure projects”, and 28 percent of respondents identified “other”. Only 11 per cent said “raise taxes”, while another 11 per cent mentioned “increase borrowing”. “The message from the small business community to Premier Prentice and his cabinet is loud and clear. They want the budget balanced through a single focus on cutting, controlling, and deferring existing spending, rather than draining more tax money out of everyone’s pockets, wallets and purses,” concluded Truscott. Based on previous survey research, CFIB launched a “no new taxes!” campaign in January to fight against the introduction of tax hikes in the provincial budget in March. The CFIB will be releasing more survey results in the days and weeks ahead, and has requested a meeting with the Finance Minister to discuss the findings. The CFIB pre-budget survey was conducted online from January 26th to February 5th, 2015. We received 880 responses.
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PONOKA NEWS 19
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Ukraine Ceasefire? Angela Merkel grew up under Communist rule in the old East Germany. She speaks fluent Russian. She has been the chancellor of Germany for the past ten years. And for all that time she has been negotiating with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, on wide variety of subjects – including, for the past year, Ukraine. They may not like each other much, but they certainly know each other. So listen to what Angela Merkel said about the debate in the US military, in the Congress, and even in the White House about sending direct American military aid to the Ukrainian government. “I cannot imagine any situation in which improved equipment for the Ukrainian army leads to President Putin being so impressed that he believes he will lose militarily,” she said. “I have to put it that bluntly.” Does anybody think that Angela Merkel is wrong about this? Does any sane person think Putin would flee in panic if he hears that the US is going to send Ukraine “defensive weapons” (antitank weapons, anti-artillery radar and the like)? If not, then this is crazy talk. Nobody in the United states is talking about sending state-of-the-art US tanks and planes to Ukraine, and they’re certainly not offering to send American troops. Secretary of State John Kerry is merely talking about giving some sophisticated “defensive weapons” to an army that doesn’t even use the weapons it has very well. The Ukrainian army is poorly trained, badly led, and controlled by a government in Kiev that is as incompetent as it is corrupt. It sometimes wins when it is fighting the equally ragtag troops of the two breakaway “republics” of Donetsk and Lugansk. But if the Ukrainian government troops and the assorted volunteer battalions that fight alongside them start to win, then the Russians send in a few thousand welltrained soldiers and push the Ukrainians back. That’s what happened last August, and now it’s happening again. Putting more advanced “defensive weapons” in Ukrainian hands is not going to change this pattern, and military professionals in Washington know it. This proposal is pure, strategy-free tokenism. Of course, Putin’s stated concerns about West-
Gwynne Dyer Think Globally ern plots to draw Ukraine into NATO are not very rational either. He’s exceptionally ill-informed if he thinks that Western European countries like France and Germany would let Ukraine join NATO, since that would mean they were taking on a treaty obligation to fight Russia on Ukraine’s behalf. He’s completely deluded if he takes his own military’s hoary arguments about Ukraine’s military importance seriously. It is 2015, not 1945, and Russia has lots of nuclear weapons. It simply doesn’t matter whether NATO’s tanks are far from Russia’s border or close to it. Wherever they are, nuclear deterrence still works. And Putin can’t really be worried about the example that a democratic and prosperous Ukraine might set for his own people. Ukrainian incomes are far lower than Russian ones (thanks mainly to Russian oil and gas), and the West shows no inclination to pour money into Ukraine in quantities large enough to change that. And though Ukraine is more democratic than Russia, its government is no less corrupt. What drives Putin, therefore, is a grab-bag of emotional motives. His man in Kiev got overthrown, and he doesn’t like to lose face. Even if Ukraine has little strategic or economic importance, it was part of Russia for 300 years, and he hates the idea that it might just slide into the West on his watch. He shares the paranoia about the evil intentions of the West that every Russian inherits (for very good historical reasons). None of this is worth a full-scale war in Ukraine, let alone a serious military confrontation with the West or a new Cold War. Maybe if the United States were prepared
to go in boots and all, showering Ukraine with weapons, money and even US troops, Putin might back away, although it would be a terrible risk to take. But some token “defensive weapons”, basically to make Americans feel better? That involves less risk of a huge Russian over-reaction, admittedly, but it would still be a big step towards a new Cold War, and for no possible gain. That is why Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande flew to Moscow last Friday: to head Kerry off by patching up some new ceasefire (or reviving the old one) in eastern Ukraine. They will be meeting with Putin and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in Minsk on Wednesday in the hope that they can make it happen. At best, that would mean the effective loss of Ukrainian sovereignty over two more provinces (Crimea is already gone), and a semi-
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permanent “frozen conflict” on Ukraine’s eastern border. Not great, but realistically Ukraine has no better options anyway. We know that Putin is willing to settle for such “frozen conflicts” in order to cripple disobedient former
Soviet republics, because he has already done it with Moldova and Georgia. We know that the victims of such tactics can thrive despite Moscow’s games. Georgia certainly does, and Ukraine could do even better with strong European Union and
US support. There is no satisfactory military solution for either side. Settle for a stalemate, and move on. Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose articles are published in 45 countries.
Ponoka Drop-In Activities 5015 – 46 Avenue
Feb 27 - Potluck & General Meeting 5:30pm. Bring a dish to share, table service and enjoy good company Regular Jam Session every Saturday at 1:00pm PONOKA ART CLUB CLASSES 28 Feb Acrylic “Figures in the City” Marianne Harris 07 Mar Watercolor “Old Car” Willie Wong Classes held at Drop In Centre - 10am - 4 pm Cost $25.00 paid at class Contact Lyla Lang Langford 403-783-1887 or Bernice Edwards 403-783-6858 Pickleball cancelled until spring. Watch for announcement of start up. Billiards - Weekdays 1:00pm. Mon through Sat – 50 cents per game. Honour system Monday Bridge 1:00pm Monday Whist - 1:30pm Monday Yoga - 6:30pm NEW PROGRAM Tuesday Canasta - 1:00pm NEW PROGRAM Tuesday & Thursday Exercise class 9:30am Tuesday Shuffleboard - 7pm. Wednesday Sewing Guild 9:30am to 4pm Wednesday Cribbage 1:00pm Wednesday Yoga - 6:30pm NEW PROGRAM Wednesday Duplicate Bridge 7:00pm Thursday Floor Curling - 1:00pm. Thursday Weaving 1:00pm Welcome to drop-in to see how it’s done Thursday Bridge 1:00pm Thursday Art Club Drop In Noon to 4pm Friday “500” 1:00pm Saturday Yoga 9:30am NEW PROGRAM Memberships available for 2015 - $10.00 per person. To rent our facility contact Dorothy @ 403-783-3027 or George @ 403783- 3514 or leave a message @ 403-783-5012. Rentals are increasing and we would like to invite our town administration, business groups, and general public (Wedding, funeral, and Birthday groups), to inquire about rentals services and prices early in their planning. We may fit your bill!
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20 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Sports
Ponoka sweeps home win with good conditioning BY AMELIA NAISMITH
Josh David leads the pack into Sundre’s zone during the Ponoka Quality Paint/ McDonalds Atom team’s Saturday, Feb. 14 home game. Ponoka dominated with a 5-3 win. Photo by Amelia Naismith
Teamwork is the key to success and that’s how the Ponoka Quality Paint/ McDonalds Atom team dominated Sundre during its Saturday, Feb. 14 home game. “Our boys played very good from start to finish,” said assistant coach Brent Evans, referring to the team’s 5-3 win. He believes it was the team’s best display of teamwork over the entire season. “(A) solid effort.” The first period Ponoka came out strong but Sundre was able to match them and no one gained the lead. During the second period Evans says a different style of playing pushed Ponoka to the back seat af-
ter the team took on a few penalties. “Sundre came on pretty strong,” said Evans. However, Ponoka was able to battle back both in shots on net and points scored for the win. “We played really strong. We basically shut them out,” said Evans. He attributes Ponoka peak in the third period to hard conditioning practices. Most teams begin to tire during the third period and those not prepared shut down. “The idea is to be good in the third period,” said Evans. With two games left in the regular season the team is looking forward to playoffs. “Everyone plays hard and plays as a team,” said Evans.
Ponoka minor hockey sees major wins over weekend BY AMELIA NAISMITH
Ponoka Calnash Trucking Atom team trumped Stettler and more than doubled its opponents score in a 11-5 win on Feb. 14. Kevin Klammer scored five times, Nevin Thompson earned two points and Ezekiel Panbrun, Jakub Palechek, Kobe Schmidt and Dylan Jones all scored once. Maskwacis Peewee B Hawks suffered a 6-1
loss against the Peewee Thunderstars in a home game on Friday, Feb. 13. Geryn Bull scored the team’s sole goal in the final second of the first period. Ponoka Peewee McDonalds Peewee team lost 15-3 on Feb. 13 to the Sylan Lake Peewee B1 Lakers. Ethan Little scored twice and Adam Hoag brought home the final goal. Ponoka Fountain Tire Wolves Midget team tied
a Feb. 13 away game with the Jasper Bearcats, 4-4. Jordan Wombold, Pierce Clemmer, Jerrett Henderson and Kellyn Pritchard all scored once. Ponoka Midget Westpro Stampeders finished 8-2 in a home game against the Innisfail Howell’s Flyers on Feb. 14. Lewis McDowell and Josh Vold both scored twice while Jordan Feldberg, Rylee DeJonge, Braeden Korchinski and Noah Spelrem all scored once each.
Lacoka Peewee Female team narrowly beat the Maskwacis Peewee Female Hawks 1-0 in a Feb. 14 home game. Hailey Huchkiwski scored the sole point in the game almost midway in the first period. Ponoka Warriors bantam team muscled a 7-1 on Feb. 14 against Warburg. Meg Crawford and Racheal Wood both scored twice. Jaymee Klinger, Paige Poison and Zoe Lorenz-Boser all scored once.
Kings defeated by more experienced David Thompson team BY AMELIA NAISMITH
It was inexperience and a slow beginning that led to the St. Augustine senior boys Kings’ defeat on Monday Feb. 9, at the hands of the David Thompson High School team. Coach Adam Bowie says the boys did not play with any effort until the fourth quarter, which led to the 84-30 loss. However, the effort the boys did put into the game was a matching force, but with
the team losing and on the defensive side, it was too late. “I’d say we played them pretty close in the fourth quarter,” said Bowie. “We’ve always struggled with playing four (quarters) this year,” he added. Along with being a faster, higher caliber team, David Thompson also had the height to play the game with a little more ease. “They’re a team we want to reach,” said Bowie.
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Coming out flat put the Kings behind immediately but Bowie says the boys are learning the benefits of injecting intensity into the full 40 minutes, as they have the skills to stay competitive. “When they’re actually playing on all cylinders, they actually surprise a lot of people,” said Bowie, referring to the boys ability to work as a successful, unified team. With six new players and 11 returning, the Kings is not a young team, it just lacks the
experience some others in the league posses. Bowie says the boys are still learning how to perform under pressure. ‘They’re getting better and they’re happy to be out there. To keep the boys in the game Bowie says it just comes down to inspiring them and reminding them to bring the pressure. “They have to come out with intensity.” The team’s next home game is Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m., with the Queens to follow.
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PONOKA NEWS 21
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Turning the barrell: Rene Leclerq and Nine compete in the sixth jackpot of the Don Laing Barrel Racing Series, Wednesday Feb. 11. Photo by Amelia Naismith
THANK Ponoka Novice YOU! Big Country Sabres Ready, set, throw: Joan Amundsen looks down the ice for the perfect point during the Ponoka Mixed Bonspiel, Feb. 13 to 15. Photo by Amelia Naismith
PONOKA MINOR SOCCER ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND EARLY BIRD OUTDOOR PROGRAM REGISTRATION Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. Ponoka Legion Auditorium WE WILL BE TAKING REGISTRATIONS FOR HOUSE LEAGUE DEVELOPMENT AND COMPETITIVE/TRAVELING TEAMS. For details about age groups, programs and fees visit our website WWW.PONOKASOCCER.CA and click on the registration tab. For more information contact: REGISTRAR@PONOKASOCCER.CA or call 403-783-4773
& Wedin’s Warriors would like to THANK the following sponsors that contributed to making their recent hockey tournament such a success:
* Accu Publishing * ATB Ponoka * Dino’s Family Restaurant * Coach’s Source for Sports – Wetaskiwin * Live, Laugh and Lash by Kendall Tomkins * Wolf Creek Golf Resort * Black Elk Hockey Camp * Heyden-Kaye Photography * Laura Moench with Epicure Selections * Parcore Oilfield Services * McDonald’s Ponoka * Central Vet Clinic
* Ponoka News * Crawford Agencies * Angela Richter with Epicure Selections * Melanie Tonneson Nails * Galloway Oilfield Construction * Tim Hortons Ponoka * AWM Oilfield Services * Westlock Ford Sales * Schwab Chevrolet * At the Barn Door Embroidery – Sara Zerr * Time Out Zone Concession * Town & Country Supplies
22 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Alberta senior invades Maui beaches Mike Rainone Hammertime A few weeks ago, my wife Joyce and I and Dale and Linda snuck away from our Alberta winter and ended up on the beaches of Maui. It was a casual but great two weeks in paradise amongst the palm trees, with me, the older guy, even getting brave enough to take a dip in the ocean, while all of us did manage to get a wee bit of a tan, despite being doused daily in gobs of 30 plus sun-tan lotion. The night before we left, we said a little ‘traveller’s prayer’, which we vowed to follow each and every day, no matter what. “God grant me a vacation to
make bearable what I can’t change, lots of friends to have fun and laugh with, and the wisdom to never get my knickers in a knot because it solves nothing, and makes me walk funny.” Our holiday foursome put together a ‘get-outand go’ plan each and every day, forgot all about diets, hockey scores and shoveling snow, and loved to mingle with lots of the friendly fun-seeking tourists, many of which were also escapees from Canada. Being the history buff that I am, I was allowed to take my pad and pen and camera along on each adventure, and found some great stories and tid-bits about those magic volcanic created Hawaiian Islands located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. *We visited some majestic churches around Maui, many of which were built of solid stone and were hundreds of
years old. We went inside to cool off on a plus 85 degree day, admired the biblical illustrations on the magnificent stained glass windows, and then relaxed on the original wooden pews and used the woven hand-fans that have served as the only ‘air conditioning’ for decades. *Spam was first introduced to Hawaii during World War II as a standard G.I. ration. The Hawaiians quickly developed a taste for the fatty canned meat, and still consume about five million pounds annually. Yours truly declined to purchase a tin in the supermarket, recalling how much we ate toasted spam and tomato sandwiches at our house in Riverside when I was growing up in Ponoka. *Hawaiians’ best crops are grown at 3000 feet at Kula, where cool nights, sunny days, and ample rain 365 days of the year are ideal for growing any-
thing veggies to potatoes to strange exotic stuff, with very strict rules on spraying and preservation of the lush and pristine environment in effect. Maui claims to have over a hundred beaches (and just about as many golf courses) and every day at the entrances and parking lots of the beaches there are countless food trucks serving everything from Tacos to shrimp to shaved ice to burgers and more. The neat welcome motto on the front of all those treat trucks is ‘No shoesno shirt-no problem.’ *Surfing is the ‘Sport of Kings’ on the Hawaiian Islands, as well as the birthplace of this vigorous and wild water activity as far back as 1500 A.D. In the early 1900’s modern surfing’s first icon and super-star Duke Kahanamoko ruled the beach, and is now a legend. Way back when surfboards were made of heavy solid
wood (Olo style) Duke also won an Olympic Gold medal in swimming at the games in Stockholm, Sweden, and then toured the world demonstrating and teaching surf-boarding to dare-devils of all ages that yearned to ride five to 50 foot waves with ease. During their winter storms at Hawaiian beaches known as ‘Jaws’ and ‘Pipeline’ professional competitions are held in giant waves and swells that grow as high as a 7 story building. *Rodeo is popular in Hawaii, with the Paniolo dating back more than 50 years, and these cowboys also had to tend to the cattle in the massive high country ranches, as well as mastering the long cattle drives down the mountainside to the slaughter houses on the mainland. Their Hawaiian rodeo legend was Ikua Purdy, who in 1908 won the World Championship in ‘Steer Roping’ in Cheyenne, Wy-
oming by roping and tying two steers in 56 seconds. *Two of the big highlights of our Hawaiian holiday was watching the magnificent sunset every evening, and our whalewatching tour on the last day. For over an unbelievable hour, we got to witness the world’s biggest love affair, as three massive humpback whales circled the boat doing flips, tail flaps, rolls, and slapped their pectorals in an effort to try and impress a single female. These magnificent mammals can weigh up to 80,000 pound, reach 50 feet in length and make the long trip from Alaska every winter to the warm oceans to have their babies and court the ladies. It was a great holiday, but it is always nice to come back to home sweet home, even though the temperature changed from plus 80 to minus 20 from take off to landing. Have a great week, all of you.
RRSPs or TFSAs: Choosing the option which works best for you Which one will give you the most comfortable retirement? BY DOMINIQUE ROELANTS TROY MEDIA COLUMNIST
It’s Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) season and the question most likely on your mind is: should I invest in RRSPs or should I invest in a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)? Often these kinds of questions get answered from the perspective of someone earning lots of money, but this column looks at the question from the perspective of Fred, an average worker who earned about $44,000 last year. The nice thing about RRSPs and TFSAs is that they allow you to earn income and get preferential tax treatment. With an RRSP contribution, you get an immediate tax deduction. The money earned in the RRSP is not taxed, but when you take any money out of the RRSP (including investment returns), you pay tax on it. With a TFSA, you get no tax deduction but all income earned inside the TFSA is tax exempt and when you take the money out of the TFSA it does not count as taxable income. Given these differences, we need to consider which is better for Fred. Fred can mix and match with RRSPs and TFSAs, but we will just look at two options: 1) putting all his money in a TFSA or 2) putting it all in an RRSP. Once you read through this, you will understand what Fred and all those Canadians like him need to consider
while planning for their retirement. I started by assuming that Fred does not have a defined benefit or a target benefit pension plan - because most private sector employees don’t. That assumption is crucial. Let’s imagine that Fred is able to save about $2,320 during the year. He can put that in either his RRSP or his TFSA. If he puts it in his RRSP, he could use the income tax savings to top up his RRSP contribution to $3,000. So his options are: 1) put $2,320 in a TFSA or 2) put $3,000 in an RRSP. Both options leave the same amount of disposable income after Fred pays his income tax. If Fred puts $3,000 into his RRSP each year for his entire career and he earns an average of 7 per cent on his RRSPs, after a 40 year career Fred will have around $600,000 in his RRSP. He can then convert that to a lifetime income stream which pays him about $39,000 per year. Fred will also get around $11,000 from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and around $6,800 from the federal government for Old Age Security (OAS). He will have to pay approximately $10,600 in income tax. Fred will not be eligible for the federal government’s Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) because his taxable income is too high. In retirement, his net income would be about $46,200. Sounds like a great plan - but it’s not. Under the current tax regime, if instead of putting $3,000 per year
into RRSPs, Fred puts $2,320 into his TFSA every year and again earns an average of 7 per cent, after a 40 year career, Fred will have around $460,000 in his TFSA. That would produce a tax free income of about $30,000 per year. He would also earn $11,000 in CPP and $6,800 in Old Age Security (OAS). His income tax would be around $1,200, and as a result he would have an after tax income of $46,600 - which is slightly better than having used RRSPs. But wait - there’s more. Because Fred’s taxable income is so low, he would get an additional $3,500 in GIS from the taxpayer so his actual after tax income is over $50,000. Like Fred, most private sector employees are middleincome workers without a defined or target benefit pension plan. A TFSA is much better for them because it allows them to save for retirement and still collect a GIS benefit paid by future taxpayers. Workers who are part of a defined or target benefit pension plan don’t get to make this choice. According to Statistics Canada, about 85 per cent of public sector workers and about 12 per cent of private sector workers are in a defined or target benefit pension plan. They are forced to save money for their retirement in a way that saves the future taxpayers a significant amount of money. Perhaps that is why such plans are so popular in the public sector - they are fair to future taxpayers. Dominique Roelants is the Executive Officer of the B.C. Teachers’ Pension Plan.
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
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In Memoriam
GEORGINA KOCYBA February 20, 2005
WILSON Herbert “Herb” Samuel Wilson of Rimbey, Alberta passed away peacefully at the Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre on Thursday, February 5, 2015 at the age of 85 years. Herb was born on October 15, 1929 in Nakusp, B.C., the third youngest of ten children. When he was just a few months old, his family moved from Nakusp to the Homeglen area in Alberta. Herb was united in marriage to Joyce Krefting in 1949, and they settled in the Asker District east of Ponoka where they farmed until 1956. Herb supplemented his income by working on the oil rigs. Following a very serious accident on the rigs, they moved to the original home farm at Homeglen. In 1959, they moved to Ponoka where Herb worked at the Centennial Hospital. In 1970, they relocated to Grande Prairie where Herb owned a Texaco franchise, and in 1973, Herb accepted his dream job in Richmond, B.C. as a carpenter for the City of Richmond. Herb met Gladys in 1986, and they were married in 1988. They spent fourteen wonderful years traveling to Arizona. In 1995, they retired to Alberta, settling in Rimbey in August, 2005. Herb loved fishing at Queen Charlotte and Port Alberni, and he took pleasure in hunting, gardening, playing cards and pool. He also loved living at Parkland Beach for a time where he could keep track of all his purple martins and the wildlife. Herb found enjoyment in the many activities at the Drop-In Centre, was a member of the United Church, and also enjoyed living at Kansas Ridge Estates. Herb’s greatest passion in life was for his family, which he thoroughly enjoyed and loved deeply. He was very proud to be the father of his eight children and their families ... and will be greatly missed by all. Herb is survived by his loving wife, Gladys; and his eight cherished children: Linda Wilson, Joanne (Joe) St. Amant, Martin (Debbie) Wilson, Brenda (Len) Schultz, Martha (Tom) Ghostkeeper, Debbie (Doug) Side, Jamie (Neil) Foley, John (Joanne) Wilson; as well as one stepson, Randy Conti. He is also survived by his sister, Alice (Russ) Picketts; the mother of his children, Joyce Klaus; twenty-four grandchildren, thirty great grandchildren, and one great, great granddaughter; in addition to many nieces and nephews and their families, other relatives, and a host of friends. Herb was predeceased by his mother and father, Sadie and Edwin Wilson, four brothers and four sisters, one stepdaughter and son-in-law. A Public Memorial Service in Celebration of Herb’s Life was held at the Rimbey United Church, Rimbey on Monday, February 9, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. with the Reverend Deborah Laing officiating. Cremation took place at the Central Alberta Crematorium, Red Deer. Interment will be held at a later date in the Asker Cemetery, Ponoka. If friends desire, memorial tributes in Herb’s Memory may be made directly to the David Thompson Health Trust, c/o Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre, Box 440, Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0; or to the Rimbey United Church, Box 7, Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0. Condolences to the Family may also be expressed by e-mail to: special_reflections@telusplanet.net Funeral and Cremation Arrangements for the Late Herbert “Herb” Samuel Wilson entrusted to the care of OBERHAMMER FUNERAL CHAPELS LTD. 1-403-843-4445
As time goes on without you And days turn into 10 years We hold onto our memories and cry our silent tears. Always Remembered, Never Forgotten John & family
Card Of Thanks
On October 2, 2014 our house burned down. Our family got out safely but the house was a total loss. The response from our community was overwhelming and heartwarming. We want to give our sincere thanks to all our family, friends, neighbours and community for their steadfast support. We received donations of clothes, toys, household items, gift cards and cash. All of which was greatly appreciated. Your warm support for our family made our loss more bearable. We are grateful to be a part of this special community. A special thank you to our neighbours Carl and Sonja Jacobson and Susan Whitecotton for their immediate assistance the night of the fire; Peter Lok at Shoppers Drug Mart for opening after hours to fill medications and donating fundamental items, to Christal Reed for driving from Calgary the next morning to bring clothing for those of us left with only our pjs; to mom and dad for the care packages, to Shelly Goodale for garnering support and donations on Face Book; to Ponoka Christian School staff, students, and parents for donations of clothing, household goods and gift cards; to Dancers Edge Studio and DEPA for replacing all our daughter’s dance clothes and contributing to her competition fees; to the Hammond family for collecting a garage full of household goods as well as cash donations; to the DeWith family a very special thank you for fostering our cats until we are in our new home. We especially want to thank fellow survivors. We have been approached by many people who have suffered the loss of their home to a fire and their support was immediate, heartfelt and very generous. From our family to all of yours we are deeply grateful and thank you for your help. God Bless.
THE LEWIS FAMILY
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Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Monday night meetings at the Anglican Church Ponoka 8:30 p.m. Phone 403-783-0719 for info. THURSDAY AA Meetings at 8:30 p.m. in the Catholic Church basement. 52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka. 403-783-4347 403-783-3442
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MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION is an in-demand career in Canada! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get the online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-888-528-0809 to start training for your work-athome career today! MEDICAL BILLING Trainees needed! Learn to process & submit billing claims for hospitals and doctors! No experience needed! Local training gets you ready to work! 1-888-627-0297.
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Cameron Bay Holdings Inc. o/a McDonalds’s in Ponoka an Red Deer (Gasoline Alley East and West) is now hiring full time and part time Food Service Supervisors. Wages are between $13.75 to $16.00 per hour, depending upon experience and qualifications. Candidates must be able to work a variety of shifts and have 3 to 5 years previous experience. Must be able to supervisor up to 20 crew. Part-time applications will be accepted from Canadians and Permanent Residents. Apply in person 4419 Hwy 2A, Ponoka, 37479 Hwy 2, Red Deer, and 37428 Hwy 2, Red Deer or email resume to FOR fast results: Classified Want Ads. Phone 1-877- cbay22@telus.net or fax to 403-783-4251. 223-3311.
Clerical
720
PONOKA LICENSE & REGISTRY Is looking for a motivated and responsible individual to fill a PERMANENT PART-TIME CLERK We are looking for someone who: • Consistently demonstrates exceptional customer service • Has excellent communication skills and is highly organized • Is able to stand for long periods of time • Is proficient with computers and interpreting information • Works well as a team player in a fast pace environment Prior training with Alberta Registries is an asset but not necessary. A criminal record check is required prior to hiring. Drop resume off at Ponoka License & Registry 4902 50 St, Ponoka during regular office hours. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
850
Alix Arena Association is seeking qualified contractors to provide quotes to the Board for small renovation projects at the rink. Interested parties will be shown the scope of work in person at the arena. Please contact Leigh Peirens, 403-596-2285.
2 yrs. relevant exp., completion of High School, be reliable, self motivated, work well under limited supervision in fast paced environment.
Salary is $14 - $18./hr. 40 hr. wk. dependant on exp. 733644 Ab Ltd. O/A The Rusty Pelican
No gifts please
Trades
Location of employment: 4105 2079 - 50 Ave. Red Deer, AB T4R 1Z4 email: bennett2014.bkkp@ gmail.com or Call 403-347-1414 or Fax to: 403-347-1161 Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Tired of Standing? Find something to sit on in Classifieds
850
Trades
Ponoka Plumbing and Heating a well established business IS SEEKING An enthusiastic and articulate 3RD OR 4TH YEAR APPRENTICE OR JOURNEYMAN for a variety of local opportunities. Please drop of resume to 5110-50 Street, Ponoka or phone 403-783-5489
Teachers/ Tutors
ARE you interested in pursuing an exciting career with Petrofield Industries at our Tornado Hydrovac Trucks’ manufacturing production facility? We are centrally located in the family-friendly community of Stettler, Alberta. We currently have an opening for:
Service and Parts Manager Our Company has an enthusiastic, fast-paced working environment, with advancement opportunities. Wage would be commensurate with experience/skills. For more information about this position and our company, check out our website www.tornadotrucks.com. Resumés can be emailed to hr@petrofield.com or faxed to 403-742-1905. WATER WELL DRILLING COMPANY IN BENTLEY REQ’S EXPERIENCED
WATER WELL DRILLERS HELPER with class 3, air. All safety tickets required. Fax resume with drivers abstract: 403-748-3015
Trades
850
SUNTERRA MEATS in Trochu, AB is seeking a
JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN
to work in their meat processing plant. Successful candidate needs to be a team player, willing to help in areas outside of certification, reliable and dependable. Starting wage of $34. per hour, benefits at the time of hire. For more information, contact Dave at 403-442-4202 or email resume to trish.hyshka@sunterra.ca WELDER - Flagstaff County seeks permanent full-time Welder, will consider Apprentice/ Journeyman. Competitive salary, benefits, pension plan. Apply to: Kevin Kinzer; kkinzer@flagstaff.ab.ca. More details at flagstaff.ab.ca.
Business Opportunities
870
GET FREE vending machines. Can earn $100,000. + per year. All cash-retire in just 3 years. Protected territories. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website: www.tcvend.com. NEED TO ADVERTISE? Province wide classifieds. Reach over 1 million readers weekly. Only $269. + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call this newspaper NOW for details or call 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228. CLASSIFIED Want Ads do more things for more people than any other form of advertising. Phone 1-877223-3311
Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY
840 Canadian International School
Business Opportunities
870
SAWMILLS from only $4,397. Make money & save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & dvd: www.Norwood Sawmills.com/400OT. 1-800-566-6899 ext. 400OT. THE DISABILITY Tax Credit. $1,500 yearly tax credit. $15,000 lump sum refund (on average). Covers: hip/knee replacements, back conditions & restrictions in walking and dressing 1-844-453-5372. WANTED. Hannas Seeds seeking distributors for forage, turf, native and reclamation seed. Good commissions. Contact Esther at 1-800-661-1529 or esther@ hannasseeds.com.
Misc. Help
880
FT and PT shunt truck drivers needed in Innisfail, AB. Fax resume to 403-227-2743 or call 403-227-2712 for more information. INTERESTED IN the Community Newspaper business? Alberta’s weekly newspapers are looking for people like you. Post your resume online. FREE. Visit: awna.com/for-job-seekers.
Training for life First Aid Training teaches how to respond confidently when injuries occur.
880
Misc. Help
Bashaw Sports Centre Has an opening for a Full Time employee in a high volume Sporting Goods Store: • Excellent customer service skills • Retail sales experience • Valid Firearms License • Good working knowledge of firearms, ammunition and general sporting good items. We offer competitive hourly compensation, flexible hours, and good working conditions. Please fax your resume in confidence to: Bashaw Sports at 780-372-4447 We appreciate all who take the time to apply and thank you for your application, but only those being considered for an interview will be notified.
Start your career! See Help Wanted
www.cisabudhabi.com
The Canadian International School, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is currently seeking teachers & administrators for the 2015/2016 school year.
12345 What we offer: Ö Fully accredited Alberta Education International School Ö Tax free salary, return air fares, housing, and medical insurance Ö KG1 to Grade 12 with small classes and great students Ö Opportunities for professional and personal development
Apply today by sending your CV to hr@cisabudhabi.com “Learners today; Leaders tomorrow”
Misc. Help
880 Employment Opportunity Transfer Station Site Operator Prentiss Site
Lacombe Regional Waste Services Commission has a part-time opportunity for a Transfer Station Site Operator at the Prentiss site. We’re looking for an individual who enjoys working with the public, has a good mechanical aptitude, and has experience operating equipment. Responsibilities include allocating waste to the appropriate disposal area, managing the burn pit, changing the bins, keeping the site tidy, etc. Forward your application by February 20, 2015.
Full details of this position may be found under Employment Opportunities on the Lacombe County website at www.lacombecounty.com.
W
hether it happened Yesterday or Today, Whatever you want to say, To celebrate your special day...
~ Say it with a classified
ANNOUNCEMENT 1-877-223-3311 309-3300
Email: classifieds@reddeeradvocate.com
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
Employment Training
900
ARE YOU an individual who would like to pursue a career in the Print Media and could use a little help getting started or wish to continue your print journalism studies? Eligible applicants are Albertans/NWT who are: graduating high school students intending to pursue journalism studies; existing journalism students; or staff members of AWNA member newspapers who wish to return to school for refresher courses. For more information, please visit: http://www. awna.com/bursaries. Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY
PONOKA NEWS 25
Landscaping
Contractors
1100
LOOKING FOR a shop? Post Frame Buildings. AFAB Industries has experience, expertise, reliability and great construction practices. For a free quote, contact Ryan Smith 403-818-0797 or email: ryan.afab@gmail.com.
Misc. Services
1290
REFORESTATION NURSERY SEEDLINGS of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Full boxes as low as $0.99/tree. Free shipping. Replacement guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca.
Legal Services
1290
Personal Services
Being a new parent isn’t easy . . .
RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME & leg cramps? Fast relief in one hour. Sleep at night. Proven for over 32 years; www.allcalm.com. Mon-Fri, 8-4 EST. 1-800-765-8660.
+
A Star Makes Your Ad A Winner! CALL:
1-877-223-3311 To Place Your Ad Now!
Heather Goodwin 403-704-3647 heathermccg@shaw.ca
EASY!
The easy way to find a buyer for items you want to sell is with a Classified want ad. Phone 1-877-2233311
1300
Personal Services
1315
Pet Services
NEED HELP managing debts? Need stress relief? One easy payment makes that possible! Licensed, government approved, BBB accredited Canadian company. Call free now: 1-877-220-3328; www.debtgone.ca. \
Services BANK SAID NO? Bank on us! Equity Mortgages for purchases, debt consolidation, foreclosures, renovations. Bruised credit, self-employed, unemployed ok. Dave Fitzpatrick: www. albertalending.ca. 587-437-8437, Belmor Mortgage.
GET BACK on track! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need money? We lend! If you own your own home you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420; www.pioneerwest.com.
1290
1318
* Quality Boarding for your dogs & cats *Proof of vaccinations and advance bookings required HOURS: Mon - Thurs 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 6 pm; Fri. 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 7 pm; Sat. 9 a.m. - 12 noon; Sun. 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. & 4 - 7 p.m.
403-783-6272
www.clinkerskennels.ca
1290
Misc. Services
1290
OUR SPECIALITY
PONOKA NEWS Carrier Team!
Bus: (403) 843-3700 Fax: (403) 843-3430
ANIMAL SERVICES
Berni's Refrigeration and Appliance Service
403-783-4880 This space could be yours for $
12345
EXERCISE
Add this feature to your next career ad booking
Call for more details 1-800-282-6903 ext 235
EARN EXTRA
MONEY
Squeezthee MOST out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...
995 plus GST/HST
Value Ad Network
Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper
AND WIN
PRIZES! Well Drilling
1400
Well Drilling
1400
Well Drilling
1400
RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide)
Each week the PONOKA NEWS reaches residents where they live, work
SUSAN WHITECOTTON at 403-783-3311
General Manager Cell: (403) 783-0593
Rimbey, AB
GET SOME
If you are interested in a LOCAL ROUTE please contact
Al York
Repair of any cooling or refrigeration system as well as large household appliances.
JOIN THE
and farm. In town our papers are delivered door to door by reliable carriers and WE COULD USE MORE HELP.
Rimbey Implements Ltd.
Let us amplify your message!
Allowance not cutting it ?
Reliable carriers are automatically entered into a monthly draw WIN an additional $50! Keep up the good work and your name will be entered to win a $400 GIFT CERTIFICATE!
AG EQUIPMENT
CLINKERS KENNELS
1315
Unplanned pregnancy may be difďŹ cult to face. We care. For conďŹ dential help call 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.) Misc.
Misc. Services
880
Misc. Help
Moving & Storage
To Move various size and style of buildings. For more information contact McCann’s Building Movers Ltd. at 403-279-6395 or visit our website: www. mccannsbldgmovers.com.
1260
CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon. U.S. travel waiver. Divorce? Simple. Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000. Calgary 403-228-1300/ 1-800-347-2540.
Misc. Services
Business Services #1000 - #1430
1240
Tell them Danny Hooper sent you
)RON &ILTERS s 3OFTENERS s $ISTILLERS s 2EVERSE /SMOSIS h+ONTINUOUS 3HOKv #HLORINATOR 0ATENTED 7HOLE (OUSE 2EVERSE /SMOSIS 3YSTEM
12345 7ITHIN MILES OF %DMONTON 7ATER 7ELL $RILLING 2ED $EER #ALGARY .EW 'OVERNMENT WATER WELL GRANT STARTS !PRIL 4IME 0AYMENT 0LAN / ! # FOR WATER WELLS AND WATER TREATMENT
")' )2/. View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at
www.1800bigiron.com
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
A & J AUTOMOTIVE A & J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR 6701 - 46 Ave. 6701 46 Ave. Ponoka, AB - T4J 1J8 Ponoka, T4J 1J8 (403)AB783-8755 (403) 783-8755 Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator
This space could be yours for $
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311
26 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
PLUMBING SHANDALL PLUMBING LTD. JAMES AVERY “Reasonable rates on all your plumbing needs” Gas Fitting - Home Renovations - Drain Cleaning -24 HOUR SERVICE5306 - 60 ST, PONOKA, AB T4J 1K7 PH: (403) 783-6372 • FAX (403) 783-6345
BOBCAT SERVICES
Rental Misc
1350
Need RV or Self Storage? 8’ X 10’ mini storage units available for rent. Also RV storage. Secure compound. Call Keith at
First Call Towing
783-3636
Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.
BOBCAT SERVICE • Snow Removal • Driveways & Parking Lots • Post-Hole Augering - 6, 9, 12, 15 • Corral Cleaning • Gradingor&Cell: Construction Call Jim Ashbough 403-783-2764 403-588-0599 Jack 403-783-5283 or Cell: 403-588-0597 Call JimSurbey Ashbough 783-2764 or Cell: 588-0599 Jack Surbey 783-5283 Cell: 588-0597
OVERHEAD DOORS
Agricultural #2000 - #2290
Horses
Auctions
1530
AUCTION Sales Wed. @ 6 pm. Antique sales 1st. Sun. of the month @ 1 pm. Feb. 8 Moose Hall 2 miles south of Ponoka on 2A WE BUY FOR CASH. 403-304-4791 Check website for full listings
2140
NEED A FARRIER?
PONOKA Quiet N/S, non partier, clean, working renter only. *LARGE 2 BDRM. MAIN LEVEL SUITE W/ LARGE COVERED DECK No pets 403-704-1645
* RIVERSIDE APTS. * Newly renovated 1 & 2 bedroom units in Ponoka: 3724-45 Street. 403-357-0287
Over 15 years experience Roommates Reliable & professional Wanted Serving Central Alberta
Call Ryan 403-895-2235 Grain, Feed Hay
Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990
3060
Suites
2190
HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.
www.doorsondemand.ca
403-963-5000 Reaching 6000 households weekly
For just
$30 per week this space could be yours!
403-783-3311 BOTTLE DEPOT
PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT Open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm
Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit
3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)
403-783-6875 SALES & SERVICE
MEIER GUN AUCTION. Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m., 6016 - 72A Ave., Edmonton. Handguns, rifles, shotguns, hunting and fishing equipment. To consign call 780-440-1860.
Building Supplies
1550
1620
A-STEEL SHIPPING Dry Storage Containers. Used 20’ & 40’ Seacans high cube & insulated containers 40’ HC. Winter Specials in stock now. Self unloading delivery. Phone toll free 1-866-528-7108; www.rtccontainer.com.
Acreages/ Farms
To share 2 bdrm apt $500/mnth includes utilities & cable. $300 D.D. No partying and no drugs AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY Call 403-790-1959
Box 1100 4905 50 St. Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0
1410
Welding
Ph. (403) 843-2173 Fax: (403) 843-2607
DENTAL CARE BIRCHLAND DENTAL CLINIC PRACTICE OF DENTISTRY
Buying or Selling your home? Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds
4037835225 • 4037835235 5118 - 51 Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1R5
DR. HUGH PORTER • DR. RICK BARR DR. JEFF BARR • DR. GREG EDWARDS
1410
- General Dentistry - Orthodontics - Cosmetic Dentistry - Bonding - Veneers - Bleaching - White or Gold Fillings - Crown and Bridge - Implant Restorations “WE ENTHUSIASTICALLY WELCOME NEW PATIENTS”
EYE CARE Drs. Heimdahl, ZoBell & Kallal 403-783-5575 1-800-662-7168 WWW.4YOUREYESONLY.CA
For Rent #3000 - #3200 4 Plexes/ 6 Plexes
3050
• B-PRESSURE • PIPELINE • OILFIELD • ASME Section VIII Division I VESSEL FABRICATION & PIPING • SHOP/PORTABLE • CNC PLASMA CUTTING • ALUMINUM • SHEARING & FORMING
3 BEDROOM IN 4-PLEX, IN PONOKA. 4 appliances. Close to swimming pool & seniors drop-in Centre, no pets, mature tenants only 403-783-5493
Suites
3060
Just had a baby?
Tell everyone with a Milestone Announcement
MAIN: (403) 783-7591 FAX: (403) 783-8178 Website: www.harbinwelding.com E-mail: bharbin@telus.net
Public Notices
6010
PONOKA COOPERATIVE OILS LTD 4700 Hwy 2A • Ponoka, AB T4J 1K3
For Sale by Tender
Mercedes 350 HP 13 Speed Eaton Fuller Transmission
3010
GREAT NEW 1612 sq ft CAPE COD
Main floor master bedroom. Gas fireplace, hardwood floors. Many extras & upgrades. Low maintenance exterior. Treed lot with a nice view. Only 1 ½ miles from town. Save thousands on utilities and taxes. For viewing and more info call 403-302-4653 or 403-782-2294
5120-51ST AVE, PONOKA
NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Friday 8AM - 12:30PM • 1PM - 5PM
BOBCAT SERVICES
BRUCE’S BOBCAT Large & Small Jobs ANYTHING ANYT & EVER EVERYTHING
403-783-0663 HEATING
“Committed to your comfort”
Robin Esau
Ph: 403-782-7722 Fax: 403-782-7499
14,000 lb Front Axle 40,000 lb Rear Axle Air Brakes
robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com
AM/FM Stero Dual Fuel Tanks Truck has five compartments 16,800 Litre aluminum tank Single fuel pump
Tenders close March 31, 2015 Motorcycles & ATV’s
•
ADVANCED EYE HEALTH & VISION EXAMS CONSULTATION & REFERRAL SERVICES DESIGNER EYE WEAR & CONTACT LENSES INSURED MEDICAL EYECARE SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES
216,000 kms 9974 Hours
1.877.223.3311
-
2003 Freightliner FL112 Truck
Highest or any tender may not be accepted
Tues - Fri: 8:30 am-5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am-3 pm
Family Friendly Dentistry
Real Estate #4000 - #4190
Truck and tank sold as a unit as is
403-783-5185 1-800-662-7135 Fax: 403-783-4635
DR. STEVE CALDER BS C DDS
ROUND hay bales. Cheap Free delivery. Self unloading. No Sunday calls 403-843-6380 403-704-3509
PONOKA 1 bdrm. clean quiet adult building, no pets $735/mo. plus power METAL ROOFING & avail., heat/water incld. SIDING. 30+ colours Feb. 1, 403-348-6594 available at over 40 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors. Call 1-888-263-8254.
EquipmentMisc.
RIMBEYDENTALCARE
Want to rent summer pasture for cow/calf pairs Call Jerry Dodds 403-783-0303
www.bigstrapperauctions.net
COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION. 9th Annual Red Deer Speed Show & Collector Car Auction. March 13 - 15, Westerner Park. Special Guests Rick & Kelly Dale - American Restoration. Dan & Laura Dotson - Storage Wars. Consign today. 1-888-296-0528 ext. 103; egauctions.com.
DENTISTRY
3380
3080
ROOMMATE WANTED
Welding
Pasture/ Land
Please submit tenders to the above address Or email: coopoils@telus.net Any questions please contact Clayton at 403-783-4288
Advertise your business in the Business Directory!
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
PONOKA NEWS 27
HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING
Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair
3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca
6010
4090
Manufactured Homes
Ponoka County PUBLIC NOTICE
403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net
This space could be yours for $
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 VETERINARY SERVICES
Bovine Veterinary Services On-Farm Mobile Veterinary Services Ultrasound-aided ReproducƟve Programs CETA CerƟĮed Dairy and Beef Embryo Transfer Herd Health
Phone 403-391-1684 ʹͶ
Dr. Bruce Wine
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST
$
Public Notices
30
PER WEEK.
Amendment to Land Use By-Law 7-08-LU The Council of Ponoka County has been asked by Dan Brachmann to amend Land Use By-Law 7-08-LU as follows: Reclassify part of the NW 7-44-27-W4 (approximately 27 acres) from Agricultural District to Country Residential Hobby Farm District to allow future subdivision of the rezoned area. Before considering the by-law, Council will hold a Public Hearing at which any person claiming to be affected may ask questions or make comments. This hearing is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 in the Council Chambers of the County Administration Building. A copy of the proposed by-law may be inspected at the County Administration Building, Ponoka, Alberta during regular office hours. Charlie B. Cutforth Chief Administrative Officer Ponoka County 4205 - Highway #2A PONOKA, Alberta T4J 1V9 Phone: 783-3333 Fax: 783-6965 e-mail: PonokaCounty@ PonokaCounty.com
Ponoka County ROAD ALLOWANCE LEASE NOTICE
REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.
Notice is hereby given of the intention of the Council of Ponoka County to consider the following road closure and lease by-law:
VETERINARY SERVICES
By-Law 4-15-RL closing the northerly 600 meters of the statutory road allowance lying west of the SW 32-42-26-W4. The closed area will be leased to Herman Verhoef.
Southwest Industrial Park 4102-64 St., Ponoka 403-783-5200 8 a.m. - 5 p.m Mon. to Sat. • Open late Thursday 24-hour Emergency Call Dr. Bill Frischke • Dr. Kelly Loree • Dr. Leighton Coma Dr. Trevor Hook • Dr. Jasmine Hardy
Reaching 6000 households weekly
For just
$30 per week this space could be yours!
403-783-3311
Before considering the by-law, Council will hold a Public Hearing at which any person claiming to be affected may ask questions or make comments. This hearing is scheduled for 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 in the Council Chambers of the County Administration Building. A copy of the proposed by-law may be inspected at the County Administration Building, Ponoka, Alberta during regular office hours.
3 BRAND NEW 20 X 76 Triple M Homes. Starting from $108,000. Available for immediate or spring delivery. For more information call United Homes Canada 1-800-461-7632 or visit us at www. .unitedhomescanada.com. LOW OIL + Canadian Dollar = Great Savings! New SRI 20’X76’ Modular Homes. Immediate delivery. Call Delee 1-855-358-0808; www. westerncanadianmodular.com.
Buildings For Sale
Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Dr. Murray Jacobson Dr. Clayton West Dr. Ashley Shannon
Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 4:30 pm
24 Hr. Emergency 403-783-4348
5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB
T4J 1M1
THIS SPACE COULD 4150 BE YOURS FOR
STEEL BUILDINGS/METAL BUILDINGS 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100, sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206; www. crownsteelbuildings.ca. STEEL BUILDINGS “Really Big Sale!” All steel building models and sizes. Plus extra savings. Buy now and we will store until spring. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422; www. pioneersteel.ca.
$30
PER WEEK.
CALL 4037833311 PLUMBING
PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING • JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER REQUIRED We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts
Financial #4400 - #4430
Investments ......................4410 Money Wanted ................4420 Money to Loan ................4430
5110 -50 Street Box 4414 Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R7
Hours of Business: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm
JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489
WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICES Money To Loan
4430
DO YOU NEED to borrow money - Now? If you own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits will lend you money - It’s that simple. 1-877-486-2161.
Darcy’s Drilling Services • water wells drilled & serviced • new pump & pressure system installations • all types of pump repairs • well shocking Darcy Schmidt Ph: (403) 783-2220 Fax: (403) 783-8828 Email: darcysdrillingservices@hotmail.com
Transportation #5000-5300
WATER WELL SERVICE
5120
Water Well Service
Holiday Trailers
2003 KUSTOM Koach, 278 BKS, Jack & Jill bunk, hard wall, fully loaded, clean shape. $13,500. Trades Cons. 403-598-0682
Dated at Ponoka, Alberta this 12 day of February, 2015. Charlie B. Cutforth Chief Administrative Officer Ponoka County 4205 Highway #2A Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1V9 Phone: 783-3333 Fax: 783-6965 e-mail to: PonokaCounty@PonokaCounty.com
VETERINARY SERVICES
Public Notice #6000
Public Notices ..................6010 Special Features ..............6050
HOW can you make your phone ring and make some quick cash? Place your ad here . . . Phone 1-877-223-3311
ECKLUND
• Install & Service Pumps • Shock Wells • Pressure Systems Serviced & Installed Home: (403) 783-3712 Cell: (403) 704-3413
Advertise your business in the Business Directory!
28 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015
REBATES UP TO
$12,500
0% IT’S EASY TO GET INTO A FORD
AVAILABLE
2014 FORD
$13,525
OR
$199
BW
$25,900
2012 FORD F150 XTR SUPERCREW
$26,900
STK L0391
OR
$179
BW
4X4, XTR
STK T0839A
$188
4X4
2012 FORD F150 SUPERCREW
4X4
OR
2014 FORD EXPEDITION LIMITED
AWD
STK T0995A
BW
$26,900
STK T0555A
OR
$188
KING RANCH STK T0469
$62,500 OR $432 BW
2014 FORD ESCAPE SE
AWD
OR
2014 F350
$91 BW
2013 FORD EDGE LIMITED
$28,500
FIESTA STK C0656
BW
$46,900
STK P0446
OR
$325
BW
2011 FORD F250 KING
RANCH CREWCAB DIESEL
$43,900
STK L0399
OR
$305
BW
2013 FORD F150 FX4 SUPERCREW
4X4 LOADED, LOCAL TRADE
$35,900
STK T0943A
OR
$249
BW
2011 FORD F350 LARIAT CREWCAB DIESEL
$45,900
STK T0850A
OR
$319
BW
*All pmts at 4.99% OAC All pymts over 84 mths example C0656 2014 Fiesta - total interest over 84 mth term, $2649 total pmts $16711
“Let your Legacy start here.”
www.legacyfordponoka.ca
YOUR LEGACY TEAM
Pat Boardman Trevor Feragen Mark Schreiner Bob Mass Sales Manager Sales Consultant Sales Consultant Sales Consultant